This Divine Moment

The argument goes on. Just “when” was Jesus born?? For centuries, there has been this on-going debate. History as we know it, doesn’t pinpoint the exact day of Jesus’ birthday. Spring is most likely, because shepherds were watching their flocks at night and this is when ewes bore their young. Around AD 200, theologians concluded Jesus was born around May 20th. Others have argued for dates in March or April. In AD 385, Pope Julius the Ist declared December the 25th as the day for celebrating Christ’s birth. He chose that date to challenge the pagan celebration of the Roman god Saturnalia, which was characterized by social disorder and immorality.

Always a conflict - always a distraction - even in AD 385! Jesus has always had competition! So, Kwanzaa, Hanukah, Festival of Lights, St. Nicholas, the Grinch, Frosty, Rudolph, (dogs/animals in the manger scene - the Bible never mentions animals!) Macy’s, Hallmark, Wii, iPhone 4, "Festivus" or Percy the Puny Poinsettia - step aside! The celebration of Christ's birth was strategically planted on purpose amidst the craziness! The “when” isn’t nearly as important as the “why”! Jesus was born and still remains to be the Emmanuel, the Alpha, the Omega, the Lord, Savior, King, Judge, Light, Rock, Redeemer, Shepherd, Creator, Giver of LIfe, forgiver of sin, and speaker with Divine Authority.

In the Old Testament the firstborn, because of the laws of succession, normally received the lion’s share of the estate or the firstborn would become King in the case of a royal family. The firstborn therefore was the one ultimately with all the rights of the father. Colossians 2:9 “For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form”. So the term “firstborn” cannot exclude Jesus! He is the firstborn of God the Father. The Supreme heir. King of Kings. And in this divine moment, you too can be “firstborn”, making Jesus your Savior. All the rights to the Kingdom can be yours today...