Prophets testified of the coming of a Messiah. Isaiah is often quoted for his eloquent description of Christ “For to us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government shall be upon his shoulders. And His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). Biblical writers described the Messiah as the light of the world, a light shining in darkness, and one who gives light and understanding to people walking in darkness.
It is not surprising then that the birth of Jesus Christ was announced by a brilliant star and equally brilliant angels. “And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them… And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2)
Similarly, an angel of light appeared to a virgin named Mary with the announcement “Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus…. He shall be great and shall be called the Son of the Highest.”
I suspect Mary was amazed beyond words. Little did she know what lay ahead. Today we know much about the life of Jesus, but do we really know him? In a world still filled with darkness, have we allowed the light of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to fill our hearts and our homes? Do we know Christ as our personal Savior, one who can redeem us from our sin, doing for us what we cannot do for ourselves? Do we love him enough to do what he has asked of us?
A story is told of two good men who died and went to Heaven. Upon arrival they met a man who asked what they knew about the Savior. One man was eloquent in his description. The other fell on his knees and wept for joy over being in the presence of the Savior. Which man knew his Savior? Which are we?
To truly know Jesus Christ, and to have a deep and solemn conviction of His role as our redeemer and savior, is a very precious thing. This light, understanding, and joy does not come by declaration, learning, nor attending church. It comes only as we humbly seek Him in faith and prayer, live His gospel, and love and serve God and our fellow men.
Jesus of Nazareth is the promised Messiah, our Redeemer and Savior. He invites us to come unto him and receive Salvation and Eternal Life. “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. (John 17:3). I pray that when we meet Christ, we will know him.
