I always enjoy Luke’s story of the birth of Jesus, beginning with the words: “In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken…” Little did the Roman governor know that his census was going to record the birth of a new “king,” in fact the King of Kings.
What strikes me in this story is how Jesus was received by those who encountered him. Even though he came into this world as a baby in humble circumstances, he was announced by an angel and recognized first by common laborers who gave thanks to God for this great gift. They were so excited at this good news that they spread the word to others who were also amazed. If Facebook had been around at the time, I suppose the internet might have crashed from all the postings of great joy in his birth. I wonder how much proclamation he receives in our daily lives, not just in our words, but our actions and ambitions.
In Jerusalem, Simeon had been waiting for the news of the Messiah, having been promised this by the Holy Spirit. Simeon immediately recognized the baby Jesus as the salvation not only of the Jews, but also “a light of revelation to the Gentiles.” He prophesied over the life of Jesus in a way that we cannot imagine in our own understanding. Which of us can set our eyes upon a baby and foretell what will become of their life?
The devout widow Ana also “spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Israel.” She recognized Jesus for who he really was because she “worshipped night and day, fasting and praying.” Others recognized him because they were looking forward to his coming. I wonder how often we miss an encounter with Jesus because we are too busy to pray and fast, too busy to worship throughout the day.
When Jesus was just 12 years old, his parents found him in the temple where even the teachers in the temple were amazed by his wisdom. When they asked him why he caused them such anxiety in searching for him, he responded, “Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?”
You’ll gain great understanding from a study of all the bible’s accounts of people who encountered Jesus. As Simeon foretold, he “is destined to cause the rising and falling of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against.” Many who encountered Jesus experienced immediate and life changing transformation. Some followed with mild interest but missed out on the abundant life he offered. Others fought against him, resisting the revelation of his truth and grace.
When we encounter the real Jesus we face the most profound question in all the world:
“Who do I say Jesus is?”
Our answer determines not only the amount of joy and victory we experience in life, but also our eternal destiny.
Is Jesus the cute little baby in swaddling clothes, placed in a humble manger and tucked carefully away after the Christmas holiday until the next year?
Is he a good teacher who lived and died as a good example to us?
Or is he who he said he was, the Son of God, the exact representation of Almighty God, the King of Kings, Prince of Peace, the Lord and Savior, the one who conquers death and transforms lives, the redemption of all who believe in him?!
Lord, give me the discernment to recognize you for who you really are in the midst of my daily activities. Don’t let my busyness hide you from my sight or keep me from your call. Remind me of the joy of dwelling with you in your Father’s house. May the ambitions of my life reflect your wisdom, love, and grace today and always.
