Journey to Christmas series Archives

Journey to Christmas: The Palace

Christmas is far more than the birth of a baby. It is more than a holiday, or a celebration or a season of goodwill. It is the beginning, the beginning of the end, actually. Christmas opens the final act in the redemption story that began long ago, in eternity past. The first stop on our journey to Christmas was a beautiful garden. Next, we stopped in Nazareth and the fields outside Bethlehem and then we paused at the manger. Last week we stopped at the Temple in Jerusalem. Our final stop is just across town from the Temple. It is the palace of Herod the king.

The Wise

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of King Herod, wise men from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star at its rising and have come to worship him” (Matthew 2:1-2).

These Magi, perhaps from as far away as Parthia, had some amazing, and no doubt God-given, insight. They were watching and immediately recognized the star as extraordinary, and they correctly interpreted what they saw. Yes, the star was exceptional, the King it announced was even more so. Note they didn’t come merely to honor the King but to WORSHIP Him. They gathered precious gifts and set out for Jerusalem, which could have been a journey of more than a thousand miles. They arrived at the most logical place to find a king – the palace.

Often our Christmas scenes picture three men on three camels. But that is probably not the whole story. Due to their wealth and position, these men would have had servants to attend them, copious supplies and money for the long journey, and likely guards to protect everything. It was no small thing when they rolled into Jerusalem. I picture Prince Ali’s arrival in Agrabah from Aladdin or maybe a presidential motorcade.

Now consider, are we attuned and watching for the Messiah’s second coming like the Magi were for His first? Do we have treasures laid up to present to Him like they had? What are we willing to undertake to be able to worship Him?

The Disturbed

When King Herod heard this, he was deeply disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him (Matthew 2:3).

History calls him Herod the Great, but he was insanely jealous and incurably paranoid. He built fortresses to protect himself from insurrection. He executed his wife, her brother, and three of his own sons. The news that one had been born king of the Jews and was not a political manipulator like himself was an immediate threat. Interestingly, he knew exactly who he was dealing with. He quickly called the religious leaders and scholars to the palace and asked where the Messiah would be born. Armed with that information, he concocted a plan to have the Magi find the baby so he could eliminate the threat.

Of course, we would never see Jesus’ kingship as a threat to our plans, our routine, or our goals, would we? Threat may be a stronger word than we are comfortable with, but our flesh never wants to surrender to Christ’s kingship. If we allow it, it will plot and scheme to drive us further and further from the Saviour.

The Overjoyed

When they saw the star, they were overwhelmed with joy (Matthew 2:10).

After the Magi left Herod’s palace, the star reappeared. God honored their sincere desire to worship Christ and ensured the star would lead them to the right place. They saw the Christ child, fell down in worship and presented the lavish gifts they brought. Mission accomplished!

Are we inclined to give up in discouragement or frustration when we are met with obstacles? Are we as certain of Christ’s identity and worthiness?

The Murderer

Then Herod, when he realized that he had been outwitted by the wise men, flew into a rage. He gave orders to massacre all the boys in and around Bethlehem who were two years old and under, in keeping with the time he had learned from the wise men (Matthew 2:16).

We end our time at the palace in Jerusalem on a somber, heartrending note. Hatred for and opposition to Christ and His followers is real. It is far more serious than dropping Merry Christmas in favor of Happy Holidays. But remember, the newborn King is also King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Make no mistake–all those who oppose Him will either be converted (like we were) or vanquished. In the meantime, let us thank God for Christ, and recommit ourselves to making sure everyone hears the glorious Good News that echoed off the hills around Bethlehem that night long ago.

Let me leave you with these verses from Paul’s letter to Titus to sum up the past, present and future Good News of Christmas.

For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus (Titus 2:11-13).

Journey to Christmas: The Temple

By Paula Wiseman

Christmas is far more than the birth of a baby. It is more than a holiday, or a celebration or a season of goodwill. It is the beginning, the beginning of the end, actually. Christmas is the final act in the redemptive story that began long ago, in eternity past. The first stop on our journey to Christmas was a beautiful garden. Next, we stopped in Nazareth and the fields outside Bethlehem, and then we paused at the manger. This week our journey takes us to the temple in Jerusalem as the truth about this baby begins to be revealed.

Joseph and Mary were devout Jews, and so they followed all the commands in the Law, including the one which required firstborn males to be redeemed with an offering. So, forty days after Jesus’ birth, they made the trip to Jerusalem to make the required offerings (Luke 2:22-24). These offerings served as a symbol and reminder that the child was given by God and so belonged to Him. (Isaiah 9:6)

Enter Simeon

There was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking forward to Israel’s consolation, and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he saw the Lord’s Messiah. Guided by the Spirit, he entered the temple (Luke 2:25-27a).

Simeon’s name is derived from a Hebrew word that means “to hear”. Notice what Luke says about Simeon. He was righteous, that is, he was faithful to the Covenant and and Godly. He was devout, that is committed to the precepts God established. He looked forward to Israel’s consolation. That is a poetic way to say he longed for the promised Messiah. And the Holy Spirit was on him. He benefited from the presence and guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Already, we are confronted with a man most noted for his sincere, lifelong devotion to God. Is that the single defining character trait in my life? Am I committed to living out God’s precepts? Am I led by the Holy Spirit? Am I looking for the return of Christ and final step in my redemption? What about you?

A Promise Kept

Now, Master, you can dismiss your servant in peace, as you promised. For my eyes have seen your salvation (Luke 2:29–30).

Imagine it. As soon as Simeon sees the baby, he knows. He knows. Then he takes the child in his arms … The fulfillment of every promise is right there. Simeon is holding Him, looking in His face. He utters this beautiful song, not unlike Zechariah’s and Mary’s song in Luke 1. This child IS the SAVIOR of the world. God has kept His promises to Simeon, personally, and to all of humanity by coming Himself to save us.

How can we not be overwhelmed by this, by the promises kept? The Deliverer has come! I have not seen Him with my eyes, but He lives in my heart! This light of the Gentiles and the glory of His people, Israel!

Actually, Simeon explains this as he hands the baby back and blesses the young parents. Not everyone will embrace this Messiah. In fact, many will flat out reject Him. But even that is a promise kept.

(Note: Anna, a devout woman who had worshipped and served in the Temple her whole adult life was also there that day. She made a very similar pronouncement to Simeon’s, although her words are not recorded. Luke 2:36-38)

The Temple is a place to know God, to be known by Him. To receive His Word, His promises, and to see them fulfilled. However, we need to ensure we are spiritually in a condition to hear from God. Take advantage of this time at the Temple to consider the promises of God, both to you and to the world and praise Him for the Savior. You might even feel like singing!

Next week our final stop at the palace.

This song by Michael Card captures this moment.

Journey to Christmas: The Manger

By Paula Wiseman

The Sign

We left the shepherds dumbfounded by the angelic visit, astounded by the news. But the angel plainly told them:

“And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger” (Luke 2:12).

Implicit in that pronouncement was the expectation that the shepherds would GO and FIND the baby, that they would want to SEE the Saviour who had been born. And they did.

The God of heaven gave us all the information we need in order to find the Saviour. Four gospels were written. Old Testament books explain our need. New Testament letters break down the wonder of salvation. All of it given with the expectation that we would act on it.

Straight to Bethlehem

When the angels had left them and returned to heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go straight to Bethlehem and see what has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” They hurried off and found both Mary and Joseph, and the baby who was lying in the manger (Luke 2:15-16).

Scripture is so understated here, it is almost humorous. I imagine the shepherds tripping over each other in their rush to get to town.

We are left to imagine what happened when the shepherds saw the baby. What did they say? What did they do? How long did they stay?

Once we knew there was a Saviour and that He was accessible, did we have that same fervor to get to Him? Maybe there are no details of the shepherds’ meeting because every encounter with the Saviour is unique and deeply personal.

After seeing them, they reported the message they were told about this child, (Luke 2:17).

These were changed men. They had seen the Saviour!

Our stop at the manger puts us in the shoes of the shepherds. Last week we considered the humbling wonder that the Gospel has come to us. This week at the manger, in the presence of the newborn King, how will you respond? We’ve been given a clear message. We’ve been invited to come and behold Him. Now what? Is it a fascinating story? An amazing event? Or is it a life-transforming, eternity-defining encounter? And if so, can anyone tell that we have been changed by the Saviour who is Christ the Lord?

It’s easy to quickly give the “correct” answer and move on. Don’t do that. Experience the wonder and the joy. Worship and adore Him without reservation. Then let everyone know what you know about that Baby!

Our journey is not over. We have a couple of stops still to go. In the meantime, savor these Christmas moments!

Journey to Christmas: The Fields

By Paula Wiseman

Christmas is far more than the birth of a baby. It is more than a holiday, or a celebration or a season of goodwill. It is the beginning, the beginning of the end, actually. Christmas is the final act in the redemptive story that began long ago, in eternity past. The first stop on our journey to Christmas was a beautiful garden. Next, we stopped in Nazareth. This week our journey takes us to the fields outside Bethlehem, where some shepherds were out with their sheep.

They were average, ordinary guys. None of their names are recorded. We don’t even know how many there were. They weren’t educated or popular. In fact, they were generally outcasts. They smelled bad, they were unclean and most people thought they were thieves.

The shepherds were the first to hear the good news.

And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. (Luke 2:10)

Good news, euangelizo, was not an unfamiliar word to the shepherds. A “gospel” was proclaimed whenever there was a great military victory. Or when a son was born to the emperor. But on this night, the angel proclaimed THE good news. And it was GOOD NEWS for everyone. You see, a military engagement has a victor and a vanquished. The birth of an emperor’s son means someone else will not rule. Those announcements are not good news to everyone.

But this ANNOUNCEMENT, this VICTORY, this BIRTH … well, it will take all of eternity to sort out just how amazingly good this news was.

Why shepherds?

When an emperor proclaimed a “gospel” it was first delivered to the Senate, to the powerful and well-connected, the prestigious and respected.

This most important announcement ever was first made to the shepherds. Why?

The good news really is for everyone: the outcasts (the shepherds in the fields), the humble, the marginalized as well as everyone else. We get a tipoff about who Jesus will focus on as He ministers and preaches the kingdom of God is at hand.

God sees Himself as the Shepherd of His people.

Then I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding. In those days, when your numbers have increased greatly in the land,” declares the LORD, “men will no longer say, ‘The ark of the covenant of the LORD.’ It will never enter their minds or be remembered; it will not be missed, nor will another one be made. At that time they will call Jerusalem The Throne of the LORD, and all nations will gather in Jerusalem to honor the name of the LORD. No longer will they follow the stubbornness of their evil hearts. (Jeremiah 3:15-17)

Jesus will call Himself the Good Shepherd, the One who lays down His life for the sheep. He will set this kingdom vision of Jeremiah in motion.

Marvel that you, like the shepherds, have received the Good News that a Savior is born.

It is no less wondrous today when God makes known to us through the Holy Spirit that Jesus is the Savior, that through faith in Him we can be part of His eternal kingdom rather than be consigned to the depths of hell away from the presence of God. If you know Jesus, you have had your own “good news of great joy” moment. How did you respond? Did you rush to confirm, to claim it for your own? Did you, have you explained to everyone you meet the thrill you experienced?

This stop in the fields presents us with the fact that we are privileged beyond measure to have received the Good News. We are humble, undeserving outcasts. But God wants us. God loves us.

Linger here in the fields until that becomes real, as real as the blinding glory of God that split the night sky, as real as the armies of heaven, as real as the message. A Savior is born!

Next week: The Stable

Journey to Christmas: Nazareth

By Paula Wiseman

Christmas is far more than the birth of a baby. It is more than a holiday, or a celebration or a season of goodwill. It is the beginning, the beginning of the end, actually. Christmas is the final act in the redemptive story that began long ago, in eternity past. Last week, the first stop in our journey to Christmas was a beautiful garden. This week’s stop is a town in Galilee, Nazareth.

The city of Nazareth is not mentioned in the Old Testament, so it may not be as old as some more familiar biblical cities. It clung to the slopes of a three-sided valley. The main road for traffic from Egypt to Asia Minor passed by Mount Tabor six miles to the east. The Sea of Galilee was only fourteen miles away. There was a significant Gentile influence there, so the rest of the Jews believed Nazarenes to be lazy and even immoral. There’s no evidence that they were, just a prejudice. Nathanael reflects this bias when he skeptically asks Philip whether anything good can come from Nazareth. (John 1:46). To top is off, the area was noted for a distinctive accent. It’s not unlike our perceptions and prejudices against places like Arkansas or Eastern Kentucky, where I’m from. At the time of Christ’s birth, though, the town had a population of fifteen to twenty thousand people, which made it a fair-sized town.

One of those inhabitants of Nazareth was a teenaged girl named Mary.

Mary lived with her parents and spent her days preparing her trousseau and waiting for the evening when Joseph, her espoused husband, would come leading a torchlight procession to call her to the marriage ceremony. The young carpenter might not ever achieve wealth or status, but he would provide for her and love her. Everyone knew Joseph was a fine young man. Mary’s father had done well, accepting Joseph’s proposal. Just as Joseph was named after the Old Testament son of the patriarch, Jacob, Mary’s own name was a modern update of Miriam, the sister of Moses. With the rebellion of the Maccabees still fresh in the collective consciousness of the people, this was a time of connection to the past, renewed hope, and longing for the promised deliverer.

Now in the sixth month [of Elizabeth’s pregnancy] the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city in Galilee called Nazareth, (Luke 1:26).

The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God. “And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus. “He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David; and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end.” (Luke 1:30-33)

Luke says in verse 29 that Mary was deeply troubled by the angel’s appearance. Confused. “Thoroughly shaken” The Message renders it.

Let’s be honest for a moment. How do we respond when God calls our name?

Me? Why me? What does He want? How hard is this going to be? How long is this going to take? What will it cost me?

This stop at Nazareth presents us with a simple question: When all is said and done, who is God in my life? If it’s me, then MY plans, MY goals, MY wants and needs merit the highest consideration.

BUT if someone else is GOD, is LORD of my life … then HIS plans are my commands.

On this point, Mary puts us to shame.

And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” (Luke 1:38)

With the scantest details and clarifications, Mary says, “I am the Lord’s servant. Whatever He says, whatever He wants, I will do.”

While we’re here in Nazareth may we consider our surrender to the proclaimed Lord of our lives. Is He? If not, why not? If so, let us adopt Mary’s declaration, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord.”

Next week: The Fields

Journey to Christmas: The Garden

By Paula Wiseman

Christmas is far more than the birth of a baby. It is more than a holiday, or a celebration or a season of goodwill. It is the beginning, the beginning of the end, actually. Christmas is the final act in the redemptive story that began long before, far from Jerusalem. Far from Nazareth. The first stop in our journey to Christmas is a lush, beautiful, perfect garden. The Garden of Eden.

Imagine the most perfect outdoor setting you’ve ever been in. The beach. The mountains. Waterfalls. The sweet fragrances of flowers all around you. The colors so vibrant. The animals. The fresh air. The perfect temperature. Do you have the picture? Eden was so much more.

And not only was the physical setting perfect, the relationship between man and woman was perfect. Perfect. No competition. No mistrust. No resentment. No slights or harsh words. No bad days. The harmony God intended.

And then there’s God. God is physically present in that garden. He is freely accessible, and it is an easy communion. The intimacy. The joy. The openness.

It seems we can never enjoy the wonder of Eden because the reality of what happened next hangs over us. We look past the beauty to the shadow. To the serpent. And things go horribly wrong.

Everything in creation is ruined. Defiled. Cursed. And when it seems there is no hope … God speaks a word of mercy, of grace, of promise.

I will put hostility between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring. He will strike your head, and you will strike his heel. Genesis 3:15

Unless and until we understand the magnitude of the loss, the utter hopelessness and powerlessness that we own, both individually and as members of the human family, then the promise is not so extraordinary. It is mundane. Ordinary. Common. That, my friends, is sacrilegious.

The Garden shows us that we are NOT what God meant for us. We are fallen. We are depraved. And I am fallen. I am depraved. I want what I want. I am self-absorbed. I am profane. I deserve the curse of a holy God. That is just and right. There is no appeal.

But there is a Savior.

And in the Garden we receive the first promise of His coming.

Because of that promise, we can come to the Garden, and while we might mourn what was lost or hold regret for what transpired, we have a promise of restoration. The Saviour whose coming was promised will not only deliver us from the curse, He will deliver all of creation from the curse. Everything will be as it was.

Linger here in the Garden. Seek God. Confess the sin that so readily takes up residence in your heart. Experience the longing for the Saviour to come.

Next stop: Nazareth