A young woman was faced with an incredibly phenomenal, beautiful, and yet gut-wrenchingly hard assignment – to mother the Son of God. Unless inspired by the Holy Spirit Himself, no one would believe this woman was impregnated by Him. This story oozed perceived scandal, one that should have led to her death. How did this woman survive such a weighty commitment?
One thing I love about this season is to take a trip back in time. Every morning I read some of the prophecies concerning Jesus. Conservative estimates say that He fulfilled at least 300 in his earthly life. What a boost to my faith to be reminded again.
…What a phenomenal thought! Two babies still within the womb greet each other with a grand response of joy! The Holy Spirit was at work. The response of John led to Elizabeth and Mary rejoicing together and prophesying in song to the Lord…
Can you imagine waiting over 42 generations for a something to be fulfilled? Christmas was a long-awaited promise fulfilled at the perfect moment in time.
As the shepherds approached the baby, they couldn’t help but fall on their knees in worship. The very cry of this little child held great authority. The shepherds hearts were filled with amazement. This truly was the Messiah. They could feel it down to the very marrow of their bones. “The King has come to dwell among us,” they whispered to one another.
As I read through and reflected upon the story of Jesus’ birth, there’s another part of the story that I have been fascinated by this year. The movement of the Holy Spirit.