“Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.”

Matthew 1:23 NKJV

 

How did this teenage girl know that the child she was carrying would not only be her Savior, but also the Savior of the world? Mary believed the angel Gabriel’s message when he spoke to her. Mary’s response to Gabriel demonstrated her vast knowledge of Old Testament Scriptures. Actually, she understood them better than most because she knew a day would come when Jesus would have to die.

 

Mary was troubled at the appearance of Gabriel, but it isn’t every day you receive a visit from an angel (Luke 1:29). His news may have come as a shock, but it was what every girl in Israel dreamed about.

 

When Gabriel explained to Mary that she was the blessed one chosen by God to give birth to the long-awaited Messiah, she was not frightened by the news. She rejoiced in what God was going to do.

 

Though people would not believe her, and they may scorn her, she knew she was giving birth to the King of kings and Lord of lords.

 

She recognized her babe as Immanuel, the God-Man, fully God and fully Man. Jesus Himself said, “I and My Father are one” (John 10:30).

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1).

 

Yes, Mary knew, and she also realized she needed a Savior just like each one of us. We have all sinned, but our sins can be forgiven because Jesus paid the sin debt on Calvary’s cross.

 

A king was born in a humble stable, with animals to welcome Him into the world. He lived a sinless life, and He died a cruel death so we can be saved and have eternal life in heaven. Mary did know, but the question is: do you believe? Have you received Christ as your Lord and Savior?

 

Do you have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ? If not, God has made you aware of that. Why not seek forgiveness and accept His free gift of salvation today? Tomorrow may never come. We are not promised another breath. What an amazing gift that will be for your loved ones who have been praying for you.

 

Lord, I confess that I am a sinner. I believe that You came to this earth, born of a virgin, and You died to pay for my sins. Cleanse me of all sin, and set me on the right path to serve You. I need You as my Lord and Savior. Amen.

 

DIG DEEPER

Read Luke 1:29-38.

 

HIKING THE TRAIL

Christmas is a time of miracles. The greatest gift we’ve been given is the free gift of salvation. Who can you share the gospel with today?

 

 

Originally posted on November 30, 2020 @ 3:02 am