Jesus is the Reason for This Season
Introduction
Merry Christmas, dear brothers and sisters in Christ! As we gather to celebrate this joyous occasion, we are reminded of the beauty and significance of the Christmas season. Amidst the lights, the music, the gifts, and the gatherings, it is crucial to pause and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. Today, I want to remind us all of this simple yet profound truth: Jesus is the reason for this season.
Our focus will center on why Jesus’ birth is the cornerstone of our celebration, how His coming fulfills God’s plan of salvation, and what His presence means for us today. Let us turn to the Scriptures and allow God’s Word to illuminate our hearts.
Scripture Reading: Luke 2:10-11"But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.’"
1. Jesus: God’s Greatest Gift to Humanity
In John 3:16, we read, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." Christmas is a celebration of this divine gift. The birth of Jesus was not an accident or coincidence; it was a deliberate act of love by our Heavenly Father.
The angel’s proclamation to the shepherds in Luke 2 emphasizes this. Jesus’ birth is "good news of great joy." Why? Because it marks the moment when God stepped into human history to save us. Through Jesus, God’s love became tangible. The baby in the manger is the embodiment of hope, peace, joy, and salvation.
Let us not lose sight of this amidst the busyness of the season. Gifts are exchanged, homes are decorated, and feasts are prepared, but the ultimate gift—Jesus Christ—surpasses them all.
2. Jesus Brings Light to a Dark World
Isaiah 9:2 declares, "The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness, a light has dawned." The world into which Jesus was born was filled with spiritual darkness. Sin had separated humanity from God, and hope seemed distant.
But Jesus came as the Light of the World. In John 8:12, He says, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." This light shines not only in Bethlehem but in every corner of the earth, illuminating hearts and transforming lives.
As we celebrate Christmas, let us remember that Jesus’ light dispels our fears, forgives our sins, and guides our paths. He calls us to walk in His light and to share it with others.
3. Jesus Fulfills God’s Promise
From the very beginning, God promised a Savior. In Genesis 3:15, after Adam and Eve sinned, God spoke of the One who would crush the serpent’s head. Throughout the Old Testament, prophets like Isaiah, Micah, and Zechariah foretold the coming of the Messiah.
In Micah 5:2, we read, "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel." Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem fulfilled this prophecy and countless others, affirming God’s faithfulness.
Christmas is a testament to the fact that God keeps His promises. He did not abandon humanity but sent His Son at the appointed time to redeem us. When we reflect on Jesus’ birth, we are reminded that we can trust God’s Word completely.
4. Jesus Offers Peace and Reconciliation
In Luke 2:14, the angels sang, "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests." The peace Jesus brings is not merely the absence of conflict but the restoration of our relationship with God.
Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus reconciles us to the Father. Romans 5:1 states, "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." This peace is the ultimate gift of Christmas.
Let us remember that the Prince of Peace calls us to live in harmony with one another. As we celebrate, let us extend forgiveness, kindness, and love, embodying the peace that Jesus brought to the world.
5. Responding to the Reason for the Season
How should we respond to this incredible truth? Here are three ways:
Worship: Like the shepherds and wise men, let us bow in awe and adoration. Worship Jesus not just with songs but with your life.
"Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker." (Psalm 95:6)
Witness: Share the good news of Jesus’ birth with others. The angel’s message was for all people; let us proclaim it boldly.
"Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation." (Mark 16:15)
Walk in His Light: Live out the hope, peace, and love that Jesus brings. Be a reflection of His light in a dark world.
"Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:16)
Conclusion
As we celebrate Christmas, let us never forget that Jesus is the reason for this season. He is the gift of God’s love, the light in our darkness, the fulfillment of God’s promise, and the source of our peace and reconciliation.
May our hearts overflow with gratitude and joy as we honor Him. Let us make this season not just a time of festivities but a time of deep worship and reflection. Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, is worthy of all our praise.
Merry Christmas, and may the joy of Christ fill your hearts today and always. Amen!
For partnership and free sermons
Pastor Joseph Ondu
+254722798889
fffckenya@gmail.com
