The other day I was with my children in the kitchen. I was stirred to share some stories around the birth of Jesus with them. The stories I shared with them were familiar but I went beyond the stories to communicate the lessons. After we were done, their perspective and understanding about Christmas changed.
Friend, a lot has been preached, explained or communicated regarding the birth of Jesus and the imports of the same on our lives and humanity at large. Jesus came down from the glory of Heaven to die and bring us back to God (Hebrews 2:10). He came to die, and His death reconciled us to God and gave us a fresh start via which we can fulfil our destiny.
Mary kept herself pure as a virgin so that age-long prophecy could be fulfilled through her (Isaiah 7:14, Luke 1:27). Every prophecy has its requirements and there are positive prophecies still waiting to be fulfilled today. You need to position yourself correctly. Joseph chose to endure the ridicule that came with a “mysterious pregnancy.” He was submitted to God to provide earthly fathering for Jesus (Matthew 1:20, 2:13-23).
Herod was a picture of an insecure leader (Matthew 2:3). A leader that could not tolerate the rising of another star. He was uncomfortable with the news that “another King” was born. He could go to any length, including killing several young children (fulfilling another prophecy, you know), to defend his throne, his leadership. That is what insecurity can cause a leader to do.
Perhaps, what made those men that brought gifts (Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh) to Jesus wise was their action; they discerned greatness in smallness. They saw greatness in a little baby, Jesus that they worshipped and celebrated him with their substance. They chose to travel several kilometres to celebrate greatness (Matthew 2:1-2). It is wisdom to discover and celebrate greatness in people and it is foolishness to ignore or suppress it.
“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:5). Jesus left the comfort and glory of Heaven so he could fulfil His destiny and also help us to fulfil ours (Hebrews 2:10). How much can you give up in order to fulfil your destiny? Remember, other people’s destinies are locked up in yours. Your failure or success is never personal; it is generational. Think on these things. Merry Christmas!
© ‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria