The Mission Of Christmas

OPENING ILLUSTRATION: Covert mission in the Middle East “OMAN FOR CHRIST.”

INTRODUCTION: Between the poignant echoes of the last Old Testament prophecies and the opening narratives of the New Testament, there lies a significant period of silence—around four centuries where heaven seemed quiet, and the cries of Israel for deliverance appeared unanswered. This era, often referred to as the intertestamental period, was a time filled with longing and anticipation as Israel awaited the fulfillment of the prophecies promised through prophets like Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Micah. Their oracles foretold a Messiah who would restore and renew, bringing hope and salvation not only to Israel but to all nations.

The prophet Isaiah vividly described the coming Messiah as a great light to those walking in darkness (Isaiah 9:2), a righteous branch that would sprout from David’s line to bring justice and peace (Isaiah 11:1-10). These prophetic visions sustained the hope of the people, anchoring them in the belief of God's faithful promise to deliver His people.

And then, in the fullness of time, the silence was broken not by the clamor of a royal parade, but by the humble cries of a newborn baby in a manger. The birth of Jesus Christ marked the divine intrusion into human history, a pivotal moment that both ancient prophets and modern theologians hail as the dawn of redemption. This event, known as the Incarnation, represents the very heart of the Mission of Christmas: God sending His Son into the world in the most unassuming form—a baby, dependent and wrapped in swaddling clothes, yet destined to save and usher in the Kingdom of God.

In this context, the Mission of Christmas emerges not merely as a celebration of Jesus' birth, but as the fulfillment of long-held hopes and the divine response to centuries of waiting. It underscores a message of divine nearness and redemption, reminding us that in the times of our deepest waitings and longings, God's plans are unfolding in ways beyond our understanding. Celebrating Christmas propels us into this grand narrative of divine faithfulness and redemption, encouraging us to trust in the perfect timing of God and His unchanging promises.

"The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth." (John 1:14)

WHAT IS THE MISSION OF CHRISTMAS?

1. HOPE: LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS

"The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned." (Isaiah 9:2)

The first mission of Christmas is HOPE. The birth of Jesus fulfilled centuries-old prophecies about the coming Messiah, the one to rescue humanity from the darkness of sin. The shepherds who received news of Jesus' birth at night—the darkest hour—heard the angel proclaiming: "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people" (Luke 2:10). This good news was the arrival of the Savior, giving hope to all who received him.

The narrative of Christmas is steeped in the fulfillment of a long-awaited promise. The birth of Jesus was foretold by prophets hundreds of years before it came to pass. Isaiah prophesied, “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14). This promise was not only about the miraculous birth of a child but the coming of hope to a world ensnared by sin and darkness. Jesus’ arrival signified the dawn of salvation, a hope for all humanity that God was making a way to restore broken relationship and offer eternal life. As we celebrate Christmas, we are reminded of the hope we have in Christ, a hope that sustains us through trials and shines as a light in the darkest of times.

What does this mean for us today? Reflect on areas in your life where you may be walking through darkness—uncertainty, discouragement, or fear—and remember that Christmas reminds us of a Savior who lights up our paths. Let Christ's hope take root in your heart.

2. PEACE: RECONCILIATION THROUGH CHRIST

"Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests." (Luke 2:14)

The second mission of Christmas is PEACE. Jesus came to reconcile humanity—not only with God but also with one another. His birth marked the beginning of God's peace project, offering the gift of eternal peace through salvation. Ephesians 2:14 says, "For he himself is our peace."

This peace is a gift extended not only to us individually but to the world at large. Jesus’ life demonstrated this peacemaking mission: healing the sick, befriending outcasts, forgiving sins, and teaching love for both neighbor and enemy. His life spoke of unity, compassion, and breaking down barriers.