Nativity: The Christmas Story

Christmas, unlike other holidays, is not just a day on the calendar. It's an entire season. That means that anticipation is part of the experience. This was especially true for the Jewish people in the first century. They had spent a couple of thousand years anxiously anticipating the coming Messiah. When Mary gave birth to Jesus, he fulfilled the prophecy the world had been waiting for! But it wasn't what anyone was expecting. The story of Mary, a virgin from the middle of nowhere, gives us a glimpse at God's heart for his people. Let's examine three powerful quotes from this Christmas passage to evaluate what they mean for both Mary and you.

The first Christmas was sheer chaos. When your life seems chaotic, know this. You are in good company. God loves turning chaos into order and discomfort into peace. Look at creation. He spoke and brought perfect unity to the universe. Look at Mary. He spoke and brought harmony to her home. If God can do that for creation and Mary, you better believe he can do it for you, too. Cling to Christ in the chaos. He will bring you order, unity, and peace. When God speaks, everything falls into place.

Isn't it mind-blowing to think about Jesus stepping down from Heaven to walk among us on earth? I don't know about you, but heaven sounds so much better than ancient Palestine. Jesus made the move for you. While preparing for His journey, you were on His mind. That's the amazing thing about Christmas. God came to earth to be with us. Jesus didn't just move into his ancient home; He also wants to move into your heart. That's the miracle of Christmas. God stepped down from heaven to walk into your life. There is no greater gift.