“Of the increase of his government and of peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to establish it, and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from henceforth even for ever” (Isaiah 9:7, ASV).

The story of the birth of Jesus never loses its fascination. Millions have traveled to Bethlehem to see where He was born. Churches all over the world hold services to commemorate His birth. Probably hundreds of hymns, stories, and poems have been written around the theme of Jesus’s birth.

What do we think about when we think of the birth of our Savior? Mary’s “Magnificat”? A baby lying in a manger? Angels in the sky telling shepherds of His arrival? Wise men coming to offer Him gifts? Surely all these and more come to mind.

However, there is much more wonder and awe to this story. We know His birth is only the beginning. We see the Son of God who ministered to His people and One who became a servant. His miracles demonstrate His power over diseases, demons, and death. We watch as His great love leads Him to die in agony for us.

Our sadness turns to praise as He rises again, conquering death and hell. We shout with joy at His promises of our forgiveness and reconciliation to God. We bow before Him in worship as He promises us a place with Him in glory for eternity.

A baby born in a manger? No. We see much, much more. We see the Son of God who gave Himself for us and reigns with God, the One who loves us and lives forever to intercede for us. We see our King.

Hymn: “Wonderful Story of Love”

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we praise You for sending Your Son to die for us. May we celebrate not only His birth, but His sacrifice, and His precious promises. In Jesus’s name. Amen.

Donna Wittlif, Denver, Colorado