The Birth of Jesus: A Christmas Message of Redemption and Emmanuel, God with Us
Matthew : 1:18, 21,23
18. Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.
21. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.
23. Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.
The Christmas season is a time of reflection and celebration, a season when we come together to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. The story of Jesus’s birth is a tale of divine intervention and hope, and it is beautifully described in the Gospel of Matthew, where we find the prophecy and fulfilment of the Messiah’s arrival.
The Miraculous Conception
Matthew’s account of the Nativity begins with the espousal of Mary to Joseph. In a world steeped in tradition, this was a significant event. However, before they could come together as husband and wife, a miraculous occurrence took place. Mary, a humble and virtuous woman, was found to be with child, but not by ordinary means. It was by the Holy Ghost that she was conceived, a divine miracle that set the stage for the birth of the Savior.
The Name “Jesus”
The angelic message to Joseph explained the purpose of this extraordinary birth: “And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.” The name “Jesus” holds profound significance; it means “Savior” or “He who saves.” This name foretold the mission of Jesus – to redeem humanity from their sins and offer the gift of salvation.
The Prophecy of Emmanuel
The Nativity story in Matthew also highlights the fulfilment of an ancient prophecy: “Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.” The name “Emmanuel” signifies that God, in the person of Jesus, would be with humanity. This prophecy underscores the extraordinary nature of Jesus’s birth and the divine presence He brings to our lives.
Christmas: A Message of Hope and Redemption
Christmas is more than just a holiday. It is a message of hope, love, and redemption. The birth of Jesus serves as a reminder that, even in the darkest of times, God provides a way for us to be reconciled with Him. Through the birth of His Son, God extended His hand to humanity, offering the gift of salvation.
Emmanuel: God with Us
The name “Emmanuel” encapsulates the heart of the Christmas message. God, in the form of Jesus Christ, entered the world to be with us. He walked among us, taught us, and ultimately gave His life for our sins. This incredible act of love is what we celebrate every Christmas.
As we celebrate Christmas, let us reflect on the miraculous conception, the name “Jesus,” and the prophecy of “Emmanuel.” These elements remind us of the divine nature of Christ’s birth and the hope, redemption, and presence of God in our lives. Christmas is a time to rejoice in the birth of the Savior and to embrace the message that He is indeed “God with us.”
