In a few days we shall celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. We must however acknowledge that Jesus was not really born on 25th December. He could have been born between late September and late October on the Jewish festival of tabernacles since He was God who became flesh and dwelt (tabernacle-d) among us (John 1:14). But that is not explicitly stated in the Bible. What is clearly written and repeatedly emphasized in the Bible is why Jesus was born. This therefore is what we must especially ponder and celebrate, even as we celebrate the Lord’s birth on 25th December.
Jesus said of Himself that, “I am the living bread which came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread that I shall give is My flesh, which I shall give for the life of the world” (John 6:51). The giving of His flesh for our lives took place at the cross. It is there that our Lord took upon Himself our sins, for He was “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). It is interesting to note that this Bread of life was literally born in the house of bread, for that is the Hebrew meaning of the words beit lechem from ‘bethlehem’ where Jesus was born is derived. More interestingly to be noted is the fact that the Lamb of God was born in Migdal Eder (Hebrew: tower of the flock) that is mentioned in Micah 4:8, an area on the outskirts of Bethlehem. This is where all sheep were deemed to be holy and could only be used for the peace and Passover sacrifices. Hallelujah!
Therefore, as we celebrate on 25th December, please let us not forget to thank God for the sacrifice of His Son for our sins. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). Jesus is our Bread of life, and He is our Passover who was sacrificed for us (1 Corinthians 5:7). This we must remember, and also celebrate on 25th December.
Merry Christmas.