While shepherds huddled around the newborn babe, angels sung the glories of God’s love. There in a stable in Bethlehem, love was born anew not just to the virgin Mary but to the whole world who would believe and accept Him as their Savior.

The world’s first Advent had arrived. The prophecy that had been proclaimed through Isaiah had come to pass. The long-awaited Messiah, the Wonderful Counselor, the Prince of Peace had come to set His people free.

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this. ” Isaiah 9:7 NIV

While all of Israel had awaited a Messiah who would set them free from earthly bondage, this first Advent or coming of Christ, was meant to set our hearts free from sin. To reign in them with His love.

In just a couple of days we will celebrate this first coming of Christ. The babe whose tenderness melts our hearts with love. His birth, though, included a death, a shedding of blood to wash our sins away.

As we gaze upon the baby Jesus,  as the shepherds did so long ago, let’s remember that His love for us cost Him a price.

The story does not end there. For Christ rose from the dead and lives in heaven with the Father. And He also lives in our hearts through the Holy Spirit.

He will come again–a second Advent, so we prepare our hearts now for that glorious time when all of heaven will rejoice.

“Look, I am coming soon! Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy written in this scroll.”
Revelation 22:7 NIV

May your Christmas be blessed and filled with His love.

From My Heart to Yours,

Janis

A week of Love