Hope Foretold
Isaiah 7:14 (ESV)
Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.
Has God ever sent you a sign or a message that was later fulfilled?
This was a prophecy that was written 700 years before the birth of Christ. God sent a message of hope to Israel despite their persistent unbelief and idolatry. God wanted them to understand precisely who he would send into the world. There are several prophecies by other prophets throughout the Old Testament of the birth of Christ. This specific prophecy promised a sign, a son, and a Savior. The much-anticipated birth of Jesus was miraculous and significant. It was important because there was hope for deliverance from Roman oppression, a king to rule, and a redeemer.
Unlike other religions, Christianity is the only one that fulfilled the messianic prophecies concerning Jesus. Christ came as a baby to redeem and save us from eternal death. God sent his only son out of immense love for us so we could be reconciled to him. His name Immanuel, means “God with us.” He promised to be with us always. Every prophetic pronouncement in the scriptures has already, or will reach its ultimate fulfillment. The word of the Lord is steadfast and unchanging. God’s promises prevail from generation to generation.
No matter where we spend Christmas or who we spend it with, we have the assurance from God that we will never be alone. The joy of Christmas is whom we celebrate: Jesus. As we approach Christmas, may we reflect on the miraculous birth and the hope we have in the world’s Savior, Jesus Christ. He is the ultimate gift, and He offers eternal salvation to those willing to accept it.
Have you accepted the gift of eternal life through Jesus? If not today, when?
What does sharing the love and hope of Christ this Christmas season mean to you?
Father God, thank you for the many signs you gave us thousands of years ago that were brought to fruition. Thank you for loving me so much that you sent your only son, Jesus Christ, who came to redeem me and save me from my sins. I am grateful that I no longer worry or fear because you are always with me. I pray that those who don't know you this Christmas season will realize that Christmas is a celebration of the incarnation of Jesus’ birth. I pray they will accept your gift of salvation and pursue a personal relationship with you. It is in Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Scripture References:
Isaiah 9:6; Matthew 1:23; Luke 1:31; John 1:14; Romans 9:5; 2 Corinthians 5:18
