Nearly two thousand years ago, there was born in Bethlehem of Judea a Babe, whose life was destined to affect countless millions. The Babe was Jesus Christ.
The time was ripe for His birth. Roman roads had been built throughout the civilized world in preparation for the feet of His future messengers. The Greek language had become almost universal in readiness for the proclamation of His Gospel.
The people among whom He was born were poor and despised, having been conquered by the Roman power. In the heart of every man was a cry for deliverance.
The world knew not of His birth. Work went on as usual. There was no tremendous upheaval announcing a new order. Kings and potentates continued to rule as before. Nothing outwardly heralded His advent into the world.
Only Heaven appeared to be interested. In fact, God had to arrange a welcome Himself, and so legions of angels circled the skies and heralded His birth. Wise men from the East, studying the stars and observing an unusual phenomenon in the heavens, came with their gifts from afar. Shepherds bowed in adoration and worship.
Rulers learned of His birth and became fearful and afraid. Anger filled their hearts. Murder was conceived and executed. Fearful of losing their power, they sought His death by every possible means.
Every diabolical plan that satanic ingenuity could devise was used to destroy Him. Demons trembled. Satan became enraged. All Hell was allied against Him; but God was watching, and He lived in spite of all.
He did not come to a palace with marble halls and carpeted stairs. No luxurious bed chamber was prepared for His birth. Neither nurses nor doctors were in attendance. Cathedral bells failed to toll; bands were silent; no royal choruses burst forth in song. Only the music of Heaven was heard; for He came to a stable, and He was laid in a manger. His mother had only the straw for a bed, and animals were her companions. There was no room in the inn.
Little did Caesar know that this Babe, through His teachings, would one day destroy his mighty empire, bring to naught the majesty and power of Rome, and overthrow all earthly governments; or that the day would come when His birth, His life, and His death would have a greater influence on humanity than the birth and death of any other man. For He was destined to be recognized by countless millions as the greatest of all the prophets, the mightiest of all the mighty, the Saviour of the world, God incarnate.
And now for nearly two thousand years, His birth has been commemorated, for He is worshiped by countless millions. More than nineteen hundred Christmas days have come and gone since that never-to-be-forgotten night when “… the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us …” (John 1:14). Today, after the passing of more than nineteen hundred years, He is worshiped by countless millions, and untold multitudes are looking forward to the time when He will reappear “… without sin unto salvation” (Hebrews 9:28).
My friend, do you worship Him as your Saviour? Will you welcome Him when He returns: Have you accepted Him? If not, then do it and do it NOW!