HomeWord - Dec. 25, 2006
Christmas - at Just the Right Moment
This devotional was written by Jim Liebelt
But when the right time came, God sent his son, born of a woman, subject to the Law. — Galatians 4:4 (NLT)
Most of us have our traditions when it comes to Christmas gift opening. Some families open their gifts on Christmas Eve. Some families open their gifts on Christmas morning. Some spread out their gift opening over several days to extend the enjoyment. Regardless of when you open your Christmas presents, you likely feel that you have the “right moment”.
It’s fascinating to me that God’s gift to us, the birth of His son Jesus; when God condescends and enters the human race, was just at the right moment. Not a moment too early; not a moment to late. “But when the right time came,” the Scripture reveals.
Thankfully, we have the certainty of Scriptures, that Jesus did come; that He lived among us; that He died for our sins; that He conquered death and rose again. We have the benefit of those Christ-followers who have gone before us, passing down to us the assurance of Jesus’ life and ministry among us. We share in the legacy of what God has done in human history and continues to do in during our time. We are a part of His ongoing story in the world.
Personally, I’m glad that we live at the point in history where we have the certainty of being able to look back to that moment, because I’m not sure if I would have recognized His arrival if the right moment had been today. Many people in Jesus’ time, did not recognize Him as the Messiah. If Jesus had not come when He did, but today, would I have understood what was happening? Would you? The world is a much larger place today, with so many conflicting voices promoting the path to meaning, fulfillment and enjoyment. If I didn’t have the assurance of the Scriptures and those who have gone before us, I’m guessing my life, my passions and my commitments would likely look much different. This is why I am thankful that God sent His son Jesus at just the right moment!
This Christmas, make the time to remember and give thanks for Jesus who came “just in time.”
From the HomeWord family to yours… Merry Christmas!
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GOING DEEPER:
1. Who in your life has helped connect you and/or keep you connected to Jesus? Find some way to express your thanks to them.
2. If Jesus had not come when He did, but was born during our time, do you think you would recognize Him? Why or why not?
FURTHER READING:
Romans 5:6; 2 Corinthians 6:1-2; 2 Peter 1:12-20
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