Christmas and Changes

She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins. 
Matthew 1:21

Changes. The Christmas story revolves around changes. 

Mary’s life was forever changed with the heavenly news she would bear the Son of God. Her response to this change was humble submission and praise to God. Joseph’s plans for an extended betrothal and later marriage were changed by the news his virgin fiancé was pregnant. He initially rejected the change, but later moved forward in belief. Lord, when unexpected change comes, help me be quick to praise You. Help me not reject the change but trust Your eternal faithfulness and move forward acknowledging Your goodness. 

A change in the heavens resulted in a change in the Magi’s focus. They determined to find the king whose star rose in the east. They sought Him, and when they found Him, they worshiped Him. Lord, use change in my life to shift my focus. Use change to bring me to deeper, fuller worship of You.

The news of the birth of a king turned Herod’s heart toward jealousy, bitterness, and vengeance. The truth is, you and I can reject change that God allows. We can refuse to focus on God and trust His plan, and, therefore, become fearful, bitter, and angry. Lord, keep me from bitterness and anger. Help me learn to be content in whatever change you allow.

Changes. Christmas is all about changes! God became flesh. The Lord Jesus Christ was born, He died, and He was gloriously resurrected in power that He might change the hearts of all who believe in Him. The Spirit of the Lord lives within believers to increasingly change them into the likeness of Jesus. Jesus came that He might change man’s destiny from condemnation and separation from God to eternal, abundant life with Him forever!

Lord Jesus, we thank You for the changes brought about by Your birth. Thank You for changing our lives and changing our future!
 

Jan Burkhart