As I ponder the Christmas story, I noticed something about each character of this incredible epic. Each character was told their part privately, individually. No one had proof or other witnesses to confirm their story. Think about it:
ZECHARIAH: Saw the angel in the Holy of Holies, and was told he would bear John the Baptist (cousin and foreteller of Christ). No one else was around.
MARY: Saw Gabriel in private to receive her special news.
JOSEPH: Had a dream to confirm that Mary's child was Divine.
SIMEON: Was told by the Holy Spirit that he would see Israel's salvation.
ANNA: Received special private revelation to see the Christ Child.
SHEPHARDS: saw the wonderful angels, but no one else in Bethlehem did! How could the night sky be filled with glory of angels and NO ONE in the town below saw it!? It was the shepherds' words against the entire town.
WISEMEN: saw a star that no one else did. Even the wisest men of Jerusalem couldn't see it!
I see God revealing his son's birth to very specific individuals who had no other coaberating evidence. They had to take this journey on FAITH alone. Mary had a little support as she and Elizabeth shared their stories, but other than that, God tested each character's faith. Just as He asks each of us to accept His story: as an individual and in faith alone.
Jesus' first advent came to individuals. But His second coming will be completely different. It will come to ALL MEN, in the sky, seen by all. Not all will rejoice at His coming, for he will ride the Horse "Faithful and True" and he will bring judgement and His eternal kingdom.
May we each receive Christ's first Advent with great joy so we will be ready for His second Advent!
No comments:
Post a Comment