"Christmas Can Change the World" by Jonathan Rhoad
Jesus, the Lord, saves.
(Matthew 1:21 AMP)
As the day of celebration draws closer, let’s pause for a moment to remember what — more accurately who — we are celebrating. The angel came to Joseph to tell him the good news! That Mary’s child would save us from our sins. The angel told Joseph to name the child Jesus, which means “the Lord saves.”
This child had been prophesied to have many other names as well, including Christ or Messiah, which means anointed; Immanuel, God with us; Lord of Lords; Prince of Peace; Wonderful; Counselor.
Anointing with oil was how the nation of Israel identified their kings. And this child was not just to be a king, but the ruler of rulers, bringing peace to the world. He was not only to be a counselor but wonderful!
Imagine what the world would be like if each one of us lived under the influence of this wise ruler: God living with us to give us wonderful counsel, peace in ourselves, with our neighbors, and the whole world.
Jason told us recently that “Joy to the World” was not just supposed to be a Christmas hymn, but that it was intended to be sung year-round. This applies to the message of Christmas, as well. We should be singing and speaking about the joy of Jesus coming to save us throughout the year. If we were faithful to do that, Christmas could change the world.
Jonathan Rhoad