Christmas will be here in a few short weeks. Most everyone is busy with the hustle and bustle of the season. We shop. We bake. We decorate. We gather with co-workers, friends, and family to celebrate. But . . . do we take time to fully grasp the true meaning of Christmas? Do we stop to think about what a perfectly orchestrated event the miracle of Christ’s birth actually was?

God in His infinite wisdom knew we were people who desperately needed saving, and He perfectly planned our Savior’s birth – down to the last detail. He knew that Caesar would be ruling at the time. He hand-picked Mary and Joseph. He placed the beautiful star for the magi (wise men) to follow to Bethlehem. He even knew there would be no room in the inn. 

God could have chosen to be born in a palace, but when He decided to become human flesh, He purposely chose to be born in a stable, among animals. He was laid in a lowly manger wearing simple strips of cloth. With His humble birth, came a humble man – Jesus. His act of humbleness makes Him easily approachable. We can turn to Jesus anytime and anywhere and pray about anything. 

And . . . His timing is everything. We can trust Him. God’s perfect timing of Jesus’ birth was divine. Galatians 4:4 shows us that. “But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law . . .” 

God perfectly designed the “SET TIME” to send Jesus to be “BORN OF A WOMAN” who we know as Mary. It was all planned because God knows what He is doing!

Absolutely nothing about Christ’s birth was happenstance. Nothing about your life is happenstance either. God knew there would be a Covid-19 pandemic. He also knew there would be an Omicron variant. He knew you and your loved ones would be living during this time. He has a plan and purpose for your life, just as He had a plan and purpose for Jesus. So, I hope you’ll put your worries behind, and rest knowing that the God of the universe sets everything into motion. He simply spoke, and the world came into orbit. He is a mighty God who sent His son to be born and then die for you. He loves you that much!

God is never early or late. Everything happens in His perfect timing, and He’s always right on time! Jesus’ birth was no exception, and Christmas year after year is no exception. If you find yourself worried, filled with heartache, or stressed – remember that Jesus was born to take our burdens to the cross. That baby who was born in a manger came to save the world!

During this holiday season, I encourage you to take time to remember Christ’s birth in a new way. Jesus is the King of kings and the Lord of lords. He is also Prince of peace, and my hope is that you experience His love and PEACE, not only at Christmas, but throughout the year. It’s a true, lasting, and redemptive peace.

“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” – Luke 2:14 

By Kristy Ensor