Every year during this season, many are celebrating the birth of Jesus. From an early age, we have heard the word “Christ” in Christmas, celebrating the Gift with gifts. Retailers have tried to replace the word “Christ” with an X. The have even made an attempt to change the phrase “Merry Christmas” to something that would be politically correct. But the seed of the word “Christ” is so planted deep in our hearts that even the unbeliever will rise up in defense against any change.

            The scriptures foretold this great event. “Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” (Isaiah 7:14).   This word, this announcement, released by the prophet Isaiah, traveled through the centuries of time until the manifestation. When He spoke what he saw, the vision into the atmosphere, it was as if he were actually present, although the birth was not for many years to come. Over the span of time, it was written and spoken of the coming of the Messiah. This word was carried in the hearts of many who were privileged to hear and believe.           

            In Luke 1: 26-35, God sent the angel, Gabriel to announce the time of the birth of Jesus. He informs Mary that she is the chosen vessel for the word that has come down through the ages. It was the appointed season ordained by God. It was all a part of the Master’s plan, the architect of all creation.

            Imagine that Mary had heard this word all of her life just like many others in Israel. Her faith came by hearing this word. (Romans 10:17). She carried the word in her heart of the coming of the Messiah just like everyone else not knowing that she was the chosen vessel to actually carry the Word made flesh to dwell among us.

            Reading the passage, you will note that Mary did not understand the possibility of what was to occur. Gabriel  explained how she would have a supernatural encounter with the Holy Spirit. He even explained that her cousin, Elizabeth was with child by natural means supernaturally. Remember, this angel is Gabriel who stands in the presence of God speaking the word of God. (Luke 1:19). He had already spoken to Zechariah concerning Elizabeth’s conception. God took flesh that was barren and made it fertile to produce life. “For with God nothing shall be impossible.” (Luke 1:37).

            Our God planned this event in eternity for us who exist in time. A funny thing about time, it has not been able to erode the significance of this event in the lives of those who have heard the word. We hear the word Christmas and we know it is about Christ the child. We hear the word Easter and we know that it is about Christ, the man, dead, buried and resurrected.

The word “Christ” is listed in the New Testament 537 times. Whether we realize it or not that word is held in our hearts and will be for generations to come. Many may deny, but one day that word will cause the transformation that all of heaven is waiting for.  Some words have come and gone never to be pronounced on the lips of man again, but Christ will always be in Christmas.

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6).

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November 2009