Unto us

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.  –Isaiah 9:6 (NIV)

Unlike other religions, where the gods are distant, aloof and impersonal, our God entered human history. He is near to us.

Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.  –Isaiah 9:7 (NIV)

Unlike other religions, where worshipers must raise themselves up in order to approach the gods, our God reaches down. He is the initiator.

“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”  –Luke 2:11-14 (KJV)

Unlike other religions, where rule-keeping, performance, and ritual sacrifices are offered up in hopes of appeasing the gods, our God seeks relationship. He delights in us.

Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.  –Luke 2:29-32 (NIV)

Our God wanted us when we were filthy, dead in our sin. He harbored no expectation that we would ever be capable of making ourselves presentable, much less worthy. Our rebellion was no surprise to Him. Born to die for His creation was not “Plan B”. From the moment YHWH said, “Let there be light”, He knew what the arc of this story would be. He wasn’t forced into saving us. Frankly, it would’ve been simpler to destroy the creation and start over. He chose us because, inexplicably, He loves us.

The whole of scripture paints a single narrative of God's rescue mission. The Old Testament demonstrates the meticulous preparation of the Creator’s plan of redemption, enabled through His fleshly appearance among His people. God has always had a heart for the nations. The Jews were not morally superior, but they were children of the promise. Jesus shows up throughout the Old Testament in allusion, foreshadowing, prophecy, and, many believe, in a few surprise appearances.

The beauty of the simple, humble arrival of the Christ-child is His role in our reclamation project. He fulfilled every promise and prophecy and stands alone as the author and agent of our salvation. When He claims to be “the Way, the Truth, and the Life”, those are not nice sounding words or a hollow claim. His assertion that “no one comes to the Father except by me” issues an invitation that is specific but not exclusive. There is no other way back home, but all who are willing are welcome. Hallelujah, what a Savior!

Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.  –Luke 2:10b (KJV)

Scott Thompson