This passage describes a nation living in oppression, abandoned to its attackers but hoping for the time when a Son would be born, out of Bethlehem. This Son was going to be a ruler; someone who will stand in the strength and majesty of the Lord; a Shepherd to His flock; bringer of security; a source of peace in the face of the enemy.

When the Son finally came into the world, the world did not recognise Him. He came to His own, but His own did not receive Him. He is the one who made the world, and was the only one with the power to make all who believe in Him children of God; children not born of blood and of flesh and of man’s desires, but born of God. God Himself came as the promised Son. John 1:10 – 14

Christmas is a reminder that God came to earth in the person of Jesus. He was born in Bethlehem, He lived and was crucified for our sin. He may not have come in the way we expected, yet He was more than we could have wanted or hoped for. God has made it possible for all who receive Him to claim the right to become His children. In Him we find our peace and security and hope.

Harry and Lucy Chinkumbi