My mom, younger brother, and I lived with my grandmother from the time I was five years old until I started the 5th grade at ten years old. As my two cousins will testify, “Mamaw” knew The Lord in a very special way.
My sweet Grandmother had a habit of kneeling beside the bed at night and praying to her Savior. She often prayed softly but loud enough so that I heard my name being presented to the throne room of Heaven. There were times I felt if I opened my eyes, I would see Jesus and her having a cup of tea while they talked.
Her prayers affect me to this day even though she died Christmas Eve 1976. This was only four months after my conversion from atheism to a follower of Christ. My first wife, who had just given her life to the Lord, challenged me to study her notes and prove her wrong. After months of study, I proved myself wrong and gave myself to the work of the Lord Jesus.
As my dear grandmother lay in the hospital bed that silent night, I asked The Lord to let her sleep so she would not be in pain and the confusion of Parkinson’s disease. I got news of her death after I left the hospital and arrived at home, where my wife and 2-month-old daughter waited for me.
That exact prayer for God’s mercy would be repeated years later for my saintly mother, who died from a lung infection. My prayer was, “Lord, let her sleep to escape the pain of death.” The doctors asked the family to say our goodbyes. When it came to my turn, I trembled. My mother had been praying for ten years for my return to the Lord. After eighteen years of service and following Jesus, I asked God to go away. I had lost faith due to tragedies in my life in 1994.
Mom often asked me when I was going to come back to the faith I once knew. Lately, I had begun to feel that familiar pull of the Holy Spirit to repent of my sins and receive forgiveness.
The Lord was knocking hard on the door of my heart. A lump the size of my fist was stuck in my throat as I approached this beautiful woman who had given me life. Like my Grandmother, my Mom knew the Lord and was close to HIm. Icema Pappas was the sweetest, non-obtrusive woman I had ever known. She was only moments away from the penalty passed upon all….death. We would be separated, perhaps forever.
Years earlier, after my conversion, she and I had studied the Bible about the resurrection and the coming of Jesus. It was in this study we saw the plan for those who die in Christ. The clearest verse is found in 1 Thessalonians 4: 16-18 (GW)
The Lord will come from heaven with a command, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. First, the dead who believed in Christ will come back to life. Then, together with them, we who are still alive will be taken up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. In this way, we will always be with the Lord. So then, comfort each other with these words!
When I leaned in close to my Mom, who seemed to be at peace but under the influence of the drugs to help soften the sting of death, I said these words through wet tears dripping on her hand. I held her soft, sweet hands close to my face.
“Mom, I will see you resurrection morning.”
Immediately, I felt a squeeze of her hand! Twice! That tightening of her hand had strength despite the drugs and impending death. It communicated the unspoken words,
“You better be there.”
Even in death, her humor and concern for me came through loud and clear through that grip!
Like those who see their life pass before their eyes when they think they are about to die, I recounted my fall from grace. My fall had been dramatic, just like my conversion. When converted, I was compelled to teach others about what I had learned. I became a Bible teacher with a very large class. I got involved in prison ministry and a world-wide magazine did a story on my ministry. A Christian brother (Charlie) and I began a radio ministry called Answers from Scripture. When Billy Graham came to town, I participated in training to become a counselor. For several nights, I had the incredible experience of working next to Jesus and the Graham team to help people start their “Jesus Journey.”
Jesus did things through me I never dreamed possible or likely.
But, a series of events in 1994 had me shaking my fist at God. I felt He had forsaken me. I turned back to the world and began to drink for the first time in my life. After several years, I became an alcoholic after feeling the deep pain of a sick child with a rare disease, a surprise divorce, losing my job unexpectedly, and the death of my father in a car wreck. Looking back, I should have pleaded with God, but I took the self-pity route.
I was so low that I could not feel God’s presence any longer, but He was there protecting me and hearing the prayers of these two powerful women in my life….not to mention many others in my church and my family.
This experience with my dying mother would only make that “still small voice.” louder. Later that year, I would return to the Lord like the prodigal son…dirty, broke, and doubtful. That is a story unto itself. My God had not forsaken me! He allowed me to waste my inheritance for the salvation of my soul.
My experience with my Creator is now stronger than ever before….in Christ, but I know that the prayers of these two beautiful women (and my ex-wife) interceded for me and stood in the gap by praying in my stead when I could not or would not do so.
Last night (New Year’s Eve 2015), I had the same feeling of hearing my name being presented to The Lord just like I heard from my grandmother and my mother years before.
My beautiful wife of almost two years (Judy) has a tradition of praying at midnight each new year. (What a contrast to the parties and drinking that I once indulged.) I tried to stay up till midnight, but we both fell asleep.
I was awakened by a soft touch on my arm and the sound of my beloved wife praying for me at midnight. She said The Lord woke her at 11:55 PM to pray.
There is nothing more powerful than a praying and believing woman! During Christ’s time on earth, it was the women who were closer and more loyal than the fearful men. These women dared the enemy of man and his agents by standing at the foot of the cross to comfort the dying Savior. Except for John, the disciples had all fled.
I am blessed by the prayers of four women in my life: My Grandmother, Mother, first wife (Mother of my children), and now my wife of two years, who encourages me along in my “Jesus Journey.” Also, those two female cousins I mentioned at the start also pray for me as I do for them!
Thank you, Judy, for carrying the prayer torch into another year and for praying for me…and my children. May I come to know the Lord like the women in my life!
Yes, I am blessed by the women who love me. But I bet you are, too!
“The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous (woman) avails much.”
Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.”
When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.
And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born.So they said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet
“But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, Are not the least among the rulers of Judah; For out of you shall come a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel.’ ”
The following is based primarily on Matthew 2:1-18 and Luke 2: 1-20
Inspiration and Timing for Our Journey
Our journey from Persia, where the great Hebrew prophet Daniel resided many years ago, has been difficult. It was the Hebrew prophets like Isaiah, Micah, and others who inspired our journey. We carefully studied their prophecies about the coming Messiah, but it was the prophet Daniel who wrote of the timing of the Savior’s arrival. It was going to be very soon! Micah disclosed the city of Bethlehem as our destination. But Daniel gave us the time of his arrival:
“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, Though you are little among the thousands of Judah, Yet out of you shall come forth to Me The One to be Ruler in Israel, Whose goings forth are from of old, From everlasting.” Micah 5:2
“Know therefore and understand, That from the going forth of the command To restore and build Jerusalem Until Messiah the Prince, There shall be seven weeks and sixty-two weeks; Daniel 9: 25
We had a place and a start time for the clock of prophecy. We knew from the book of Ezra that the decree to restore and build Jerusalem was given by Artaxerxes, the king of Persia to Ezra, the priest, in the fall of 457 BC. Our careful calculation to the Messiah starts here and moves forward 69 weeks. This is 483 days or years by applying the day-to-year principle as indicated by the other Hebrew prophets. The timing was tantalizing close to our time. To encourage us even more, we saw a star in the east that beaconed us to start our journey.
The People and Sights Along the Way
We have fought sandstorms, cold, and that never-ending heat! My back aches from the monotonous rocking of my camel’s steps. It is like riding on a slow-moving boat pushed back and forth continually by repetitive ocean waves; perhaps another reason they call them ships of the desert. Despite all this, I am sure our inconvenience will be rewarded! We have put our hearts and time into this journey. We are certain the prophecies from the ancient scrolls are accurate.
The camels have done well, but like us, they enjoy the breaks we often take and the people we meet along the way. When we pass through the many villages, the beasts become the center of attention for the children who try to feed them hay and anything else they can find. (**See note at the end regarding the number of Wisemen)
The adults are filled with questions about our journey and our destination. They want to know where we come from. Their wide eyes reveal they are impressed with the distance we have traveled. We are glad to share with them the news of the Messiah and what we know from the ancient scrolls. Some consider us crazy, but many listen and wish they could go with us. They call it an adventure, but we know it is more…so much more.
Nighttime is my favorite part of the day because of the star’s brightness guiding us and the peace that comes from the quiet, disturbed only by the crackling fire and the occasional snort of a tired camel. Our conversation around the fire is pleasant and lulls me into a deep sleep.
The star is a constant reminder of the accuracy of the scrolls and a confirmation of our journey. Many people we have met have seen the unusually bright star and wondered. They don’t know what it means but are comforted by its beauty and marvel that its magnificence is not diminished by the light of day. When we started, it was low on the horizon, but it is rising and becoming brighter as we have drawn nearer to our destination, Bethlehem!
I lean back on the saddle I have used as a pillow and enjoy the warmth of the fire. I am warm and content. My journal and mind are filling up with my notes. I make this entry under the light from the twinkling star-lit night.
Now, we are only one day out from Jerusalem. We hope to visit King Herod and celebrate with him the coming of the Messiah. The town is surely busy with activity and celebration even though it has taken us many months to get this far.
Our anticipation grows so much that we wake in the star-lit clearness of the approaching new day. We desire to arrive in Jerusalem early in the sunlit morning to seek an audience with the king before we head off to Bethlehem, only about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) to the south of the capital city.
So I rise with the others, full of energy and anticipation of the journey ahead of us. We mount our ships of the desert, which match our excitement to start moving again. This is going to be a good day! I can feel it!
The early morning air is cold, and the star is brighter than ever! We hear music in the distance! As we approach the outskirts of Jerusalem, we are greeted by shepherds watching over their sheep. With wonder in their eyes, they run up to our caravan and ask us the usual questions: our destination and where we come from.
I tell them the story of our journey and our wish to see the new baby king. They are polite and respectful and let us speak first. When I pause my story, they begin to talk fast and together as if they will burst if their words are not heard. Wonder and curiosity force us to dismount our camels and gather around them. They calm themselves and begin to talk one at a time. Then begins their beautiful story of the events when the Messiah was born.
“We were in the field at night when we heard the sound of singing and joy, and there was light all around us that lit up the countryside like it was daytime….only brighter.“
Then the next one speaks with equal intensity.“We were afraid! I turned my eyes toward the ground.”
A third young man, a little older, says, The brightness was coming from an angel who told us to
” fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.”
Luke 2:10
“The angel told us to go to the city of David where we would find Christ the Lord, and we would find a babywrapped in *swaddling clothes lying in a manger.”
Luke 2:12 (**See note at the end.)
Another one talks before the older one finishes, “The music continued, and many more angels appeared high in the night sky!”
It all is starting to come together for me. The older boy exclaims confidently, “That star you have followed are angels. They began to sing again as your caravan approached us.”
The youngest one blurts, “After the angels appeared to us, we left our flocks and raced towards Bethlehem. There we found a woman named Mary and her husband Joseph, and there in a manger was the baby they call Jesus.”
My heart pounds faster as I realize we now know the king’s name! His name is Jesus! In Greek, it means “Jehovah is Salvation.” The Hebrew name is Joshua. His mission is in His Name!
Their eyes are bright, and they all nod their heads in agreement when the older shepherd boy slows down his words and says with tears in his eyes. “Our hearts are changed! We can’t stop talking about that night and the baby Jesus. We have told everyone! Even Mary rejoiced at our story!”
The visit with the young men has inspired and energized us! We have also learned the name of the mother and father! It is an easier climb back on my camel. Our strength has been renewed, as well as our urgency to get to Bethlehem. The music and praise in the heavens grow louder and brighter even as the yellow and orange of the sunrise pushes us toward Jerusalem and King Herod.
We arrive in Jerusalem by mid-morning. The angel star is quiet. The smell of food awakens our hunger. But, we greatly desire to see the king as soon as possible. It overrides all our growing hunger and thirst.
There is a crowd to meet us. It is easy to notice they are not like the excited shepherds. They are curious and seem afraid and worried. Maybe it is our large caravan and the way we look. Our skin and clothes are different.
We finally arrive at the king’s palace and request an audience with him. To my surprise, we are immediately invited in. A few of us go, and the others mix with the growing crowd outside, telling them of our journey and the new story from the shepherds that they had already heard. And, of course, the children ask many questions and try to feed the camels.
We wait for a long time before we are welcomed into the king’s presence. King Herod reflects the same aura as the people outside. He looks concerned. For a moment, I wonder if we made a mistake coming here.
I am the first one to speak. Excitedly, I blurted out words without considering that I was talking to a king.
“Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east and are come to worship him.”
Although we knew of Jesus’ birthplace, surely He is somewhere in the big city by now. I began to think this was not a good question and statement…asking a reigning king about a king that would rule the Jews in the future. The king struggles to stay polite and excuses himself. We can hear him calling all his wise men and priests together, standing nearby. He tries to whisper so we can’t hear, but the cold palace lets his voice carry easily through its halls. Well, we didn’t get off to a good start.
He is angry and demands they tell him where this Christ would be born. We hear them quote the same scrolls we studied before and after we left on our long journey. We hear the Scribes read from the Prophet Micah. The same place that the scroll of the prophet told us where He would be born:
“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, Though you are little among the thousands of Judah, Yet out of you shall come forth to Me The One to be Ruler in Israel, Whose goings forth are from of old, From everlasting.”
Michah 5:2
We look at each other with the same surprise. They have taken the words of their ancient prophets so lightly. I feel foreboding and regretfulness rising up within me as the king invites us back into his private chambers.
A forced smile appears on his troubled face. He apologizes for not being more hospitable and invites us to have some food and something to drink. I am uncomfortable. The meeting is uncomfortable. We politely eat some of the food even though our hunger is different.
He asks about our trip, and we tell him about our long journey, the star in the east, and the shepherds we met just outside town. We sense we should not tell the king anything more and look for an excuse to leave quickly.
Then, he asked us a question he was eager to know. It seemed to be the main reason for his talking with us, which hinged on this question.
“When was it you first saw the star and began the journey ?”
Reluctantly, I tell him it has been almost two years. The king is attempting to determine the age of the Child. He then says in almost a whisper and an evil voice,
“Go and search for him, and when you find him, bring him here to the palace that I might worship him too.”
With a jump and quick turn around, he immediately leaves us and disappears into the palace. He is no doubt trying to use us to locate the Child.
The attendant escorted us back to our caravan and the growing crowd. We never expected to have such a greeting. I, along with my friends, have become suspicious and concerned. We are glad to get back on our camels and back to following the star, which has turned us south towards the sleepy little village of Bethlehem.
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Bethlehem
The sun has risen fast. It waits for no one. We continue our journey toward Bethlehem. It is a short distance, but we travel slowly, enjoying the final leg of our journey. It will be starting to get dark before we arrive.
The excitement of seeing the new king of the Jews returns to our hearts as we travel along silently, contemplating the events of last night and this morning. The crowds have disappeared.
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There before us lies the twinkling lights of the little city of Bethlehem! The star is just above the peaceful town, shining its clear light and casting shadows on the surrounding hillside. How beautiful it is! We feel great joy and express our congratulations to each other. A journey of hundreds of miles has brought us to this moment! A small group of citizens comes to greet us at the entrance to the village. We ask for Mary and Joseph.
The star is almost directly overhead as a sweet girl escorts us to a tiny house near the edge of town.
Dismounting our camels, we hear the music again far up in the night sky. Mary greets us at the door as we crowd into the small, clean home.
Jesus!
We feel the presence of royalty as the young toddler Jesus walks into the room. Emotions overcome us, and we fall on our knees and worship the child we know to be the fulfillment of thousands of years of prophecy. We have seen Him in all the scrolls of the Jews many times. The face of God is in his brown eyes! We can sense a power that searches our hearts. Many of us weep and then gather ourselves to give our gifts.
We bring in our offerings of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, and we celebrate our gift of time with Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. They make our visit enjoyable and pleasant. We spent the night laughing and playing with little Jesus. I take him up in my arms and show him the camels. They are calm and peaceful as Jesus reaches out and touches them. He wants to touch all of them! Never before have I seen such a face as the One who looks at me. The others demand their time to hold Him, so I pass Him to the other men. I still feel his warmth in my arms and on my chest. The journey has been worth every step and more. My heart wants to burst with joy! I feel alive!
The rest of the night is spent talking and eating. Too soon, our time with Mary, Joseph, and Jesus is finished. Before we leave, we ask for permission to anoint Jesus with more gifts we brought. It is a special moment when we place the sweet smell upon the head of Jesus as he sits in his mother’s lap. We are content and feel the presence of God in the room and in the sparkling eyes of the Little King.
No Ordinary Child
I wonder why more people do not understand that here before us is Immanuel (God with us)!
Therefore, the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son and shall call His name Immanuel.
Isaiah 7:14
This little boy will grow up to save the world from eternal death! He will pay the penalty we deserve and teach us spiritual things about the kingdom of God! It is all in the ancient scrolls! My mind goes to the scroll of Isaiah 6:9
For unto us, a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 6:9
He is “Mighty God,” Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace!” My breath is taken as I consider who we stand before! This is no ordinary child!
We wish to stay but feel we must begin our journey back. We promise to return when the child is older. We know from the writings of the prophet Daniel that the young child will live to be only about 33 years old, and then he will sacrifice himself for the people’s sins and rise on the third day to show his power over the clutches of the grave and death.
Our wish is to return when he is older, but in the meantime, we pledge among ourselves to share, in our homeland, the good news of the birth of Jesus. The beginning of eternity and our hope are standing right behind those innocent brown eyes! We will begin to tell our story with those we will meet along the way back to our home in the West.
We say our goodbyes to Jesus, Mary, and Joseph and head north through back through the city.
A Detour Home-Danger!
I am stopped in my tracks as I begin to consider our strange visit with King Herod.
A man appears to me and tells me to take a different path home and head east instead of retracing our journey. The king is up to some evil, and we don’t want to help him in any way. We probably made a mistake visiting him and giving him information about the approximate age of the baby Jesus. It is an unfortunate turn of events. We are going to miss the young shepherd boys on the way back. I was looking forward to telling them of our visit.
The star is gone as we begin our travel home. We stop to rest when we feel we have put some distance between King Herod and us. Around the fire, we talk about our great journey and look again at scripture. We come across a disturbing message from the prophet Jeremiah:
“Thus says the Lord: “A voice is heard in Ramah, lamentation and bitter weeping. Rachel is weeping for her children; she refuses to be comforted for her children, because they are no more.”
Jeremiah 31:15
Soon, the voices and the fire go out, and we sleep…exhausted from excitement and the sleep we missed, I can feel the warmth of my camel next to me. The trip home will be long, but it will go fast as we tell the wonderful story of Jesus along the way.
Later, the next day, we hear the news and fulfillment of that passage in Jeremiah that troubled us. King Herod had all the male children 2 years old and younger killed. What a cruel and foolish man!
We also got the news that Joseph was warned of Herod’s intention, and our friends Mary, Joseph, and Baby Jesus escaped to the safety of Egypt.
Later, we would learn Joseph took his family to a little town called Nazareth after Herod died.
More fulfillment of the ancient scrolls:
“And out of Egypt, I called my son.”
Hosea 11:1
Our journey to find Jesus was long and difficult, but we have been transformed by it. The scrolls, the star, the shepherds, and even the evil King Herod have made us wiser. But most of all, it has made us believers in Jesus.
We will continue to study the ancient scrolls because now that we have seen Jesus ourselves, we can see Him in every story told there.
So many scrolls to read, so little time.
And ye shall seek me, and find me when ye shall search for me with all your heart.
Jeremiah 29:13
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My friends, join me in a Christmas worship of the One who gave all that we might have all. Let us fall on our knees this night as we think about the birth of Jesus and the visit of men who were seeking Him. They found Him! Have you?
*Only three Wisemen are traditional and unverifiable. The number is likely based on the three main gifts given to Jesus, Mary, and Joseph ( gold, frankincense, and myrrh.-Matt. 2: 11). For such a long journey and the importance of the journey, there was likely a caravan of camels and support people. But, again, unverifiable. )
**Swaddling clothes were strips that were often used to prepare the body for burial. They would wrap (swath) them in linen and then add strips around the head and feet (See John 20:7- Jesus and John 11:44- Lazarus). Jesus, at birth, was wrapped in the cloth for dead people. His mission from the start was to die!
Meaning of the Three Gifts of the Wisemen
Gold is associated with royalty and was a gift given to kings around the time of Christ’s birth. The wise men’s first gift of gold symbolized Jesus’ role as the King of Kings. Jesus’ family may have used the gift of gold in their flight to Egypt and after leaving that region to return home.
Frankincense was a type of incense burned as a sacrifice and used by priests during the sanctuary services at the time of Christ’s birth. The wise men’s gift of frankincense symbolized Jesus’ priesthood. Jesus’ family may have used the gift of frankincense for practical purposes, such as during prayer, or given some to the temple priests as a sacrifice.
Myrrh: During Christ’s birth, myrrh was used as an embalming ointment when preparing bodies for burial. The wise men’s gift of myrrh prophetically signified that Jesus was born to suffer and die while also symbolizing his burial. The gift of myrrh also had a practical use, as Mary, Jesus’s mother, may have used the myrrh for both Joseph’s and Jesus’s burials.
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For additional study:
Jesus’ first coming was predicted in hundreds of Old Testament writings!
Herod in Jerusalem impatiently awaited the return of the wise men. As time passed, and they did not appear, his suspicions were roused. The unwillingness of the rabbis to point out the Messiah’s birthplace seemed to indicate that they had penetrated his design and that the magi had purposely avoided him. He was maddened at the thought. Craft had failed, but there was left the resort to force. He would make an example of this child-king. Those haughty Jews should see what they might expect in their attempts to place a monarch on the throne.
Children Two and Under
Soldiers were at once sent to Bethlehem, with orders to put to death all the children of two years and under. The quiet homes of the city of David witnessed those scenes of horror that, six hundred years before, had been opened to the prophet.
“In Ramah was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.” Matthew 2:18, ref Jeremiah 31:15
This calamity the Jews had brought upon themselves. If they had been walking in faithfulness and humility before God, He would, in a signal manner, have made the king’s wrath harmless to them. But they had separated themselves from God by their sins and had rejected the Holy Spirit, which was their only shield. They had not studied the Scriptures with a desire to conform to the will of God. They had searched for prophecies that could be interpreted to exalt themselves and to show how God despised all other nations. It was their proud boast that the Messiah was to come as a king, conquering His enemies and treading down the heathen in His wrath. Thus they had excited the hatred of their rulers. Through their misrepresentation of Christ’s mission, Satan had purposed to compass the destruction of the Saviour; instead, it returned upon their own heads.
This act of cruelty was one of the last that darkened the reign of Herod. Soon after the slaughter of the innocents, he was himself compelled to yield to that doom that none can turn aside. He died a fearful death.
Egypt
Joseph, who was still in Egypt, was now bidden by an angel of God to return to the land of Israel. Regarding Jesus as the heir to David’s throne, Joseph desired to make his home in Bethlehem; but learning that Archelaus reigned in Judea in his father’s stead, he feared that the son might carry out the father’s designs against Christ. Of all the sons of Herod, Archelaus most resembled him in character. Already his succession to the government had been marked by a tumult in Jerusalem and the slaughter of thousands of Jews by the Roman guards.
Again Joseph was directed to a place of safety. He returned to Nazareth, his former home, and here for nearly thirty years, Jesus dwelt,
“that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene.”
Matthew 2:23
Galilee was under the control of a son of Herod, but it had a much larger admixture of foreign inhabitants than Judea. Thus there was less interest in matters relating especially to the Jews, and the claims of Jesus would be less likely to excite the jealousy of those in power.
Such was the Saviour’s reception when He came to the earth. There seemed to be no place of rest or safety for the infant Redeemer. God could not trust His beloved Son with men, even while carrying forward His work for their salvation. He commissioned angels to attend to Jesus and protect Him till He should accomplish His mission on earth and die at the hands of those whom He came to save.
Desire of Ages, p. 65-67
Contemplation notes:
As I read the first six chapters of Desire of Ages and the related scriptures, I could see the hand of the only true God at work. Hundreds of prophecies from God’s sacred Word provide proof of the truthfulness of Jesus Christ. There is no other like Him (Psalm 71-19 b)
His first advent was promised in the opening chapters of Genesis. From that point forward, every generation looked for the Messiah. It finally happened in the fall of 4 AD (as detailed by Daniel the prophet). Other prophets foretold of His character and work, his birthplace, and the events surrounding His birth. It is impossible for this baby to have set up the fulfillment of hundreds of Old Testament prophecies. Hence, this is what separates Jesus from all others who would claim the title of Immanuel (God With Us):
Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.
Matthew 1:23, ref. Isaiah 7:14
The prophets gave Jesus many other names. These names reflect his character and work while here on earth and in His heavenly sanctuary:
For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isiah 9:6
Donkey VS White Horse
While Jesus came the first time relatively quiet with His mother riding on a lowly donkey, his return is prophesied in even more detail and with more certainty that His first advent. Sadly, there are many more Herods, doubters, blind followers, and religious men who love religion and tradition more than truth. There are fewer wise men in our world today.
As prophesied by Jesus, there are many false teachers and prophets who think they understand His second coming. But they twist clear scripture to create books and Hollywood productions that are far from the actual events described by God’s prophets in the Holy Bible.
He came into our world quietly in Bethlehem, born of a poor virgin who rode on a donkey, delivered quietly in a horse trough (manger). He comes back with worldwide viewing riding a white horse and proclaimed as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. This time, He comes in clouds, and every eye will see Him (Revelation 1:7). He will be announced with trumpets from the heavens, and His followers will rise from their graves to meet Him in the air (1 Thess. 4: 16-17). Every knee will bow and proclaim Him as true and righteous (Romans 14:11)
Let each one of us take to time to read and contemplate the clear word of God. Make it your personal study and devotion time. If you don’t have dedicated time each day for prayer, study, and seeking, start one! It is still not too late! For His second coming is certain:
For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry. Hebrews 11:7
It will be the biggest event of the earth’s history!
Now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness, He judges and makes war. His eyes were like a flame of fire, and on His head were many crowns. He had a name written that no one knew except Himself. He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God. And the armies in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean, followed Him on white horses. Now out of His mouth goes a sharp sword, that with it He should strike the nations. And He Himself will rule them with a rod of iron. He Himself treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And He has on His robe and on His thigh a name written:
The wise men departed alone from Jerusalem. The shadows of night were falling as they left the gates, but to their great joy, they again saw the star and were directed to Bethlehem. They had received no such intimation of the lowly estate of Jesus as was given to the shepherds. After the long journey, they had been disappointed by the indifference of the Jewish leaders and had left Jerusalem less confident than when they entered the city.
At Bethlehem, they found no royal guard stationed to protect the newborn King. None of the world’s honored men were in attendance. Jesus was cradled in a manger. His parents, uneducated peasants, were His only guardians. Could this be He of whom it was written that He should
“raise up the tribes of Jacob,” and “restore the preserved of Israel;” that He should be “a light to the Gentiles,” and for “salvation unto the end of the earth”?
Isaiah 49:6.
“When they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary His mother, and fell down, and worshiped Him.”
Matthew 2:11
Beneath the lowly guise of Jesus, they recognized the presence of Divinity. They gave their hearts to Him as their Saviour and then poured out their gifts,—“gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.” What a faith was theirs! It might have been said of the wise men from the East, as afterward of the Roman centurion,
“I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.”
Matthew 8:10
The magi had been among the first to welcome the Redeemer. Their gift was the first that was laid at His feet. And through that gift, what privilege of ministry was theirs! The offering from the heart that loves, God delights to honor, giving it the highest efficiency in service for Him. If we have given our hearts to Jesus, we also shall bring our gifts to Him. Our gold and silver, our most precious earthly possessions, our highest mental and spiritual endowments, will be freely devoted to Him who loved us, and gave Himself for us.
Escape From Herod
The wise men had not penetrated Herod’s design toward Jesus. When the object of their journey was accomplished, they prepared to return to Jerusalem, intending to acquaint him with their success. But in a dream, they received a divine message to hold no further communication with him. Avoiding Jerusalem, they set out for their own country by another route.
In like manner, Joseph received a warning to flee into Egypt with Mary and the child.
“And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.
Matthew 12:13
Joseph obeyed without delay, setting out on the journey by night for greater security.
Through the wise men, God had called the attention of the Jewish nation to the birth of His Son. Their inquiries in Jerusalem, the popular interest excited, and even the jealousy of Herod, which compelled the attention of the priests and rabbis, directed minds to the prophecies concerning the Messiah and to the great event that had just taken place.
Satan was bent on shutting out the divine light from the world, and he used his utmost cunning to destroy the Saviour. But He who never slumbers nor sleeps was watching over His beloved Son. He who had rained manna from heaven for Israel and had fed Elijah in the time of famine provided in a heathen land a refuge for Mary and the child Jesus. And through the gifts of the magi from a heathen country, the Lord supplied the means for the journey into Egypt and the sojourn in a land of strangers.
The arrival of the magi was quickly noised throughout Jerusalem. Their strange errand created excitement among the people, which penetrated to the palace of King Herod.
Being of alien blood, he was hated by the people over whom he ruled. His only security was the favor of Rome. But this new Prince had a higher claim. He was born to the kingdom.
Herod suspected the priests of plotting with the strangers to excite a popular tumult and unseat him from the throne. He concealed his mistrust, however, determined to thwart their schemes by superior cunning. Summoning the chief priests and the scribes, he questioned them as to the teaching of their sacred books regarding the place of the Messiah’s birth.
This inquiry from the usurper of the throne, and made at the request of strangers, stung the pride of the Jewish teachers. The indifference with which they turned to the rolls of prophecy enraged the jealous tyrant. He thought them trying to conceal their knowledge of the matter. With authority they dared not disregard, he commanded them to make a close search and to declare the birthplace of their expected King.
So they said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet:
‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, Are not the least among the rulers of Judah; For out of you shall come a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel.’ ” Matthew 2: 5-6
Herod now invited the magi to a private interview. A tempest of wrath and fear raged in his heart, but he preserved a calm exterior and received the strangers courteously. He inquired at what time the star had appeared and professed to hail with joy the intimation of the birth of Christ. He bade his visitors,
“Search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found Him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship Him also.”
Matthew 2:8
So saying, he dismissed them to go on their way to Bethlehem.
Priests and Elders
The priests and elders of Jerusalem were not as ignorant concerning the birth of Christ as they pretended. The report of the angels’ visit to the shepherds had been brought to Jerusalem, but the rabbis had treated it as unworthy of their notice. They, themselves, might have found Jesus and might have been ready to lead the magi to His birthplace, but instead of this, the wise men came to call their attention to the birth of the Messiah. “
Where is He that is born King of the Jews?” they said, “for we have seen His star in the East and are come to worship Him.”
Matthew 2:2
Now pride and envy closed the door against the light. If the reports brought by the shepherds and the wise men were credited, they would place the priests and rabbis in a most unenviable position, disproving their claim to be the exponents of the truth of God. These learned teachers would not stoop to be instructed by those whom they termed heathen. It could not be, they said, that God had passed them by to communicate with ignorant shepherds or uncircumcised Gentiles.
They determined to show their contempt for the reports that were exciting King Herod and all of Jerusalem. They would not even go to Bethlehem to see whether these things were so. And they led the people to regard the interest in Jesus as a fanatical excitement. Here began the rejection of Christ by the priests and rabbis. From this point, their pride and stubbornness grew into a settled hatred of the Saviour. While God was opening the door to the Gentiles, the Jewish leaders closed it to themselves.
Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod, the king, behold, there came wise men from the East to Jerusalem, saying, Where is He that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen His star in the East and are come to worship Him.” Matthew 2: 1-2
The wise men from the East were philosophers. They belonged to a large and influential class that included men of noble birth and comprised much of the wealth and learning of their nation. Among these were many who imposed on the credulity of the people. Others were upright men who studied the indications of Providence in nature and who were honored for their integrity and wisdom. Of this character were the wise men who came to Jesus.
The light of God is ever shining amid the darkness of heathenism. As these magi studied the starry heavens and sought to fathom the mystery hidden in their bright paths, they beheld the glory of the Creator. Seeking clearer knowledge, they turned to the Hebrew Scriptures.
The wise men had seen a mysterious light in the heavens upon that night when the glory of God flooded the hills of Bethlehem. As the light faded, a luminous star appeared and lingered in the sky. It was not a fixed star nor a planet, and the phenomenon excited the keenest interest. That star was a distant company of shining angels, but of this, the wise men were ignorant.
Yet they were impressed that the star was of special import to them. They consulted priests and philosophers and searched the scrolls of the ancient records. The prophecy of Balaam declared, “
There shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Scepter shall rise out of Israel.” Numbers 24:17.
Could this strange star have been sent as a harbinger of the Promised One? The magi had welcomed the light of heaven-sent truth; now it was shed upon them in brighter rays. Through dreams, they were instructed to go in search of the newborn Prince.
While they had the star before them as an outward sign, they also had the inward evidence of the Holy Spirit, which was impressing their hearts and inspiring them with hope. The journey, though long, was a happy one for them.
Apathetic Greeting
They have reached the land of Israel and are descending the Mount of Olives, with Jerusalem in sight, when, lo, the star that has guided them all the weary way rests above the temple and, after a season, fades from their view. With eager steps, they press onward, confidently expecting the Messiah’s birth to be the joyful burden of every tongue. But their inquiries are in vain. Entering the holy city, they repaired to the temple. To their amazement, they find none who seem to have knowledge of the newborn king. Their questions call forth no expressions of joy but rather of surprise and fear, not unmingled with contempt.
The priests are rehearsing traditions. They extol their religion and their own piety while they denounce the Greeks and Romans as heathens and sinners above others. The wise men are not idolaters, and in the sight of God, they stand far higher than do these, His professed worshipers, yet the Jews look upon them as heathen. Even among the appointed guardians of the Holy Oracles, their eager questionings touch no chord of sympathy.
The arrival of the magi was quickly noised throughout Jerusalem. Their strange errand created excitement among the people, which penetrated to the palace of King Herod.
The birth of Christ was senseless unless there was a cross and a resurrection in His future.
Mary looked forward to the Messiah’s reign on David’s throne, but she saw not the baptism of suffering by which it must be won. Through Simeon, it is revealed that the Messiah is to have no unobstructed passage through the world. In the words to Mary,
“A sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,”
Luke 2:35a (KJ)
God, in His tender mercy, gives to the mother of Jesus an intimation of the anguish that already, for His sake, she had begun to bear.
“Behold,” Simeon had said,
“…this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against.””
Luke 2:34 (KJ)
They must fall who would rise again. We must fall upon the Rock and be broken before we can be uplifted in Christ. Self must be dethroned, and pride must be humbled if we would know the glory of the spiritual kingdom. The Jews would not accept the honor that is reached through humiliation. Therefore, they would not receive their Redeemer. He was a sign that was spoken against.
“That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” Luke 2:35b
In the light of the Saviour’s life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed.
Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory and making no sacrifice for their good.
But the gift of Christ reveals the Father’s heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are
“thoughts of peace, and not of evil.”
Jeremiah 29:11.
while God’s hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to complete His work.
Desire of Ages p. 57
It declares that while God’s hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to complete His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, and no divine agency is left unemployed.
Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that no love is greater than Mine on earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me.
At the cross of Calvary, love and selfishness stood face to face. Here was their crowning manifestation.
Desire of Ages p. 57
At the cross of Calvary, love and selfishness stood face to face. Here was their crowning manifestation. Christ had lived only to comfort and bless, and in putting Him to death, Satan manifested the malignity of his hatred against God. He made it evident that the real purpose of his rebellion was to dethrone God and to destroy Him through whom the love of God was shown.
Through the life and the death of Christ, the thoughts of men also are brought into view. From the manger to the cross, the life of Jesus was a call to self-surrender and to fellowship in suffering. It unveiled the purposes of men. Jesus came with the truth of heaven, and all who were listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit were drawn to Him. The worshipers of self belonged to Satan’s kingdom. In their attitude toward Christ, all would show on which side they stood. And thus, everyone passes judgment on himself.
In the day of final judgment, every lost soul will understand the nature of his own rejection of truth. The cross will be presented, and its real bearing will be seen by every mind that has been blinded by transgression. Before the vision of Calvary with its mysterious Victim, sinners will stand condemned. Every lying excuse will be swept away. Human apostasy will appear in its heinous character. Men will see what their choice has been. Every question of truth and error in the long-standing controversy will then have been made plain. In the judgment of the universe, God will stand clear of blame for the existence or continuance of evil. It will be demonstrated that the divine decrees are not accessory to sin. There was no defect in God’s government, no cause for disaffection. When the thoughts of all hearts shall be revealed, both the loyal and the rebellious will unite in declaring,
“Just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints. Who shall not fear Thee, O Lord, and glorify Thy name? . . . for Thy judgments are made manifest.”
Revelation 15:3, 4.
“Just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints. Who shall not fear Thee, O Lord, and glorify Thy name? . . . for Thy judgments are made manifest.” Revelation 15:3, 4.
Spiritual things are spiritually discerned. In the temple, the Son of God was dedicated to the work He had come to do. The priest looked upon Him as he would upon any other child. But though he neither saw nor felt anything unusual, God’s act in giving His Son to the world was acknowledged. This occasion did not pass without some recognition of Christ.
Simeon
“And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.”
Luke 2: 25-26
As Simeon enters the temple, he sees a family presenting their firstborn son before the priest. Their appearance bespeaks poverty, but Simeon understands the warnings of the Spirit, and he is deeply impressed that the infant being presented to the Lord is the Consolation of Israel, the One he has longed to see. To the astonished priest, Simeon appears as a man enraptured. The child has been returned to Mary, and he takes it in his arms and presents it to God while a joy that he never felt before enters his soul. As he lifts the infant Saviour toward heaven, he says,
“Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”
The spirit of prophecy was upon this man of God, and while Joseph and Mary stood by, wondering at his words; he blessed them and said to Mary,
“Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against; (yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
Luke 2: 29-35
Anna
Anna, also a prophetess, came in and confirmed Simeon’s testimony concerning Christ. As Simeon spoke, her face lighted up with the glory of God, and she poured out her heartfelt thanks that she had been permitted to behold Christ the Lord.
These humble worshipers had not studied the prophecies in vain. But those who held positions as rulers and priests in Israel, though they too had before them the precious utterances of prophecy, were not walking in the way of the Lord, and their eyes were not open to behold the Light of life.
So it is still. Events upon which the attention of all heaven is centered are undiscerned; their very occurrence is unnoticed by religious leaders and worshipers in the house of God. Men acknowledge Christ in history, while they turn away from the living Christ. Christ, in His word, calling to self-sacrifice, in the poor and suffering who plead for relief, in the righteous cause that involves poverty and toil and reproach, is no more readily received today than He was eighteen hundred years ago.
Mary pondered the broad and far-reaching prophecy of Simeon. As she looked upon the child in her arms and recalled the words spoken by the shepherds of Bethlehem, she was full of grateful joy and bright hope. Simeon’s words called to her mind the prophetic utterances of Isaiah:
“There shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots: and the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon Him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord. . . . And righteousness shall be the girdle of His loins, and faithfulness the girdle of His reins.” “The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined. . . . 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, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 11:1-5; 9:2-6.
Yet Mary did not understand Christ’s mission. Simeon had prophesied of Him as a light to lighten the Gentiles, as well as a glory to Israel. Thus the angels had announced the Saviour’s birth as tidings of joy to all peoples. God sought to correct the narrow Jewish conception of the Messiah’s work. He desired men to behold Him not merely as the deliverer of Israel but as the Redeemer of the world. But many years must pass before even the mother of Jesus would understand His mission.
About forty days after the birth of Christ, Joseph and Mary took Him (Jesus) to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord and to offer sacrifice. This was according to Jewish law, and as man’s substitute, Christ must conform to the law in every particular. He had already been subjected to the rite of circumcision as a pledge of His obedience to the law.
As an offering for the mother, the law required a lamb of the first year for a burnt offering and a young pigeon or a turtledove for a sin offering. But the law provided that if the parents were too poor to bring a lamb, a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons, one for a burnt offering, the other for a sin offering, might be accepted.
The offerings presented to the Lord were to be without blemish. These offerings represented Christ, and from this, it is evident that Jesus Himself was free from physical deformity. He was the “lamb without blemish and without spot.” 1 Peter 1:19.
Desire of Ages, p. 50
His physical structure was not marred by any defect; His body was strong and healthy. And throughout His lifetime, He lived in conformity to nature’s laws. Physically as well as spiritually, He was an example of what God designed all humanity to be through obedience to His laws.
The dedication of the firstborn had its origin in the earliest times. God had promised to give the Firstborn of heaven to save the sinner. This gift was to be acknowledged in every household by the consecration of the firstborn son. He was to be devoted to the priesthood as a representative of Christ among men.
In the deliverance of Israel from Egypt, the dedication of the firstborn was again commanded. While the children of Israel were in bondage to the Egyptians, the Lord directed Moses to go to Pharaoh, king of Egypt, and say, “
Thus saith the Lord, Israel is My son, even My first-born: and I say unto thee, Let My son go, that he may serve Me: and if thou refuse to let him go, behold, I will slay thy son, even thy first-born.”
Exodus 4:22, 23.
Moses delivered his message, but the proud king’s answer was,
“Who is the Lord, that I should obey His voice to let Israel go? I know not the Lord, neither will I let Israel go.”
Exodus 5:2.
The Lord worked for His people by signs and wonders, sending terrible judgments upon Pharaoh. At length, the destroying angel was bidden to slay the firstborn of man and beast among the Egyptians. That the Israelites might be spared, they were directed to place upon their doorposts the blood of a slain lamb. Every house was to be marked so that when the angel came on his mission of death, he might pass over the homes of the Israelites.
After sending this judgment upon Egypt, the Lord said to Moses,
“Sanctify unto Me all the first-born, . . . both of man and of the beast: it is Mine;” “for on the day that I smote all the first-born in the land of Egypt I hallowed unto Me all the first-born in Israel, both man and beast: Mine shall they be: I am the Lord.”
Exodus 13:2; Numbers 3:13.
After the Tabernacle service was established, the Lord chose the tribe of Levi in the place of the firstborn of all Israel to minister in the sanctuary. But the firstborn were still to be regarded as the Lord’s and were to be bought back by a ransom.
Thus the law for the presentation of the firstborn was made particularly significant. While it was a memorial of the Lord’s wonderful deliverance of the children of Israel, it prefigured a greater deliverance to be wrought out by the only-begotten Son of God. As the blood sprinkled on the doorposts had saved the firstborn of Israel, so the blood of Christ has the power to save the world.
What meaning then was attached to Christ’s presentation! But the priest did not see through the veil or read the mystery beyond. The presentation of infants was a common scene. Day after day, the priest received the redemption money as the babes were presented to the Lord. Day after day, he went through the routine of his work, giving little heed to the parents or children unless he saw some indication of the wealth or high rank of the parents. Joseph and Mary were poor, and when they came with their child, the priests saw only a man and woman dressed as Galileans and in the humblest garments. There was nothing in their appearance to attract attention, and they presented only the offerings made by the poorer classes.
The priest went through the ceremony of his official work. He took the child in his arms and held it up before the altar. After handing it back to its mother, he inscribed the name “Jesus” on the roll of the firstborn. Little did he think, as the babe lay in his arms, that it was the Majesty of heaven, the King of glory. The priest did not think that this babe was the One of whom Moses had written, “
A Prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; Him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever He shall say unto you.”
Acts 3:22.
He did not think that this babe was He whose glory Moses had asked to see. But One greater than Moses lay in the priest’s arms, and when he enrolled the child’s name, he was enrolling the name of One who was the foundation of the whole Jewish economy. That name was to be its death warrant, for the system of sacrifices and offerings was waxing old; the type had almost reached its antitype, the shadow of its substance.
The Shekinah had departed from the sanctuary, but in the Child of Bethlehem was veiled the glory before which angels bow. This unconscious babe was the promised seed to whom the first altar at the gate of Eden pointed. This was Shiloh, the peace giver. It was He who declared Himself to Moses as the I AM. It was He who, in the pillar of cloud and fire, had guided Israel. This was He whom seers had long foretold. He was the Desire of all nations, the Root and the Offspring of David, and the Bright and Morning Star. The name of that helpless little babe, inscribed in the roll of Israel, declaring Him our brother, was the hope of fallen humanity. The child for whom the redemption money had been paid was He who was to pay the ransom for the sins of the whole world. He was the true…
“…high priest over the house of God,” the head of “an unchangeable priesthood,” the intercessor at “the right hand of the Majesty on high.” Hebrews 10:21; 7:24; 1:3.
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
Luke 2: 10-11
The King of Glory stooped low to take humanity. Rude and forbidding were His earthly surroundings. His glory was veiled so that the majesty of His outward form might not become an object of attraction. He shunned all outward display. Riches, worldly honor, and human greatness can never save a soul from death;
Jesus purposed that no attraction of an earthly nature should call men to His side. Only the beauty of heavenly truth must draw those who would follow Him. The character of the Messiah had long been foretold in prophecy, and He desired men to accept Him upon the testimony of the word of God.
Desire of Ages, p. 44
The angels had wondered at the glorious plan of redemption. They watched to see how the people of God would receive His Son, clothed in the garb of humanity. Angels came to the land of the chosen people. Other nations were dealing in fables and worshiping false gods. To the land where the glory of God had been revealed, and the light of prophecy had shone, the angels came.
With amazement, the heavenly messengers beheld the indifference of the people whom God had called to communicate to the world the light of sacred truth. The Jewish nation had been preserved as a witness that Christ was to be born of the seed of Abraham and David’s line, yet they knew not that His coming was now at hand. In the temple, the morning and the evening sacrifice daily pointed to the Lamb of God, yet even here was no preparation to receive Him. The priests and teachers of the nation knew not that the greatest event of the ages was about to take place. They rehearsed their meaningless prayers and performed the rites of worship to be seen by men, but in their strife for riches and worldly honor, they were not prepared for the revelation of the Messiah.
Desire of Ages, p. 44
Angels attend Joseph and Mary as they journey from their home in Nazareth to the city of David. The decree of imperial Rome for the enrollment of the peoples of her vast dominion has extended to the dwellers among the hills of Galilee. As in old times, Cyrus was called to the throne of the world’s empire so that he might set free the captives of the Lord, so Caesar Augustus was made the agent for the fulfillment of God’s purpose in bringing the mother of Jesus to Bethlehem. She is of David’s lineage, and the son of David must be born in David’s city. Out of Bethlehem, said the prophet,
“shall He come forth . . . that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from the days of eternity.”
Micah 5:2, margin
Weary and homeless, they traverse the entire length of the narrow street, from the city’s gate to the eastern extremity of the town, vainly seeking a resting place for the night. There is no room for them at the crowded inn. In a rude building where the beasts are sheltered, they at last find refuge, and here, the Redeemer of the world is born.
Above the hills of Bethlehem, an innumerable throng of angels are gathered. They wait for the signal to declare the glad news to the world. Had the leaders in Israel been true to their trust, they might have shared the joy of heralding the birth of Jesus. But now they are passed by.
God declares,
“I will pour water upon him that is thirsty and floods upon the dry ground.” Isaiah 44:3;
“Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness.”
Psalm 112:4.
To those seeking light and who accept it with gladness, the bright rays from the throne of God will shine.
In the fields where the boy David had led his flock, shepherds still kept watch by night. Through the silent hours, they talked together of the promised Saviour and prayed for the coming of the King to David’s throne. “And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.”Luke 2: 10-11
At these words, visions of glory fill the minds of the listening shepherds. The Deliverer has come to Israel! Power, exaltation, and triumph are associated with His coming. But the angel must prepare them to recognize their Saviour in poverty and humiliation. “This shall be a sign unto you,” he says; “Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.”
Desire of Ages, p. 48
Oh, that today, the human family could recognize that song! The declaration then made, the note then struck, will swell to the close of time and resound to the ends of the earth. When the Sun of Righteousness shall arise, with healing in His wings, that song will be re-echoed by the voice of a great multitude, as the voice of many waters, saying,
“Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth.”
Revelation 19:6.
The story of Bethlehem is an exhaustless theme. In it is hidden “the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God.” Romans 11:33. We marvel at the Saviour’s sacrifice in exchanging the throne of heaven for the manger and the companionship of adoring angels for the beasts of the stall. Human pride and self-sufficiency stand rebuked in His presence. Yet this was but the beginning of His wonderful condescension. It would have been an almost infinite humiliation for the Son of God to take man’s nature, even when Adam stood in his innocence in Eden. But Jesus accepted humanity when the race had been weakened by four thousand years of sin. Like every child of Adam, He accepted the results of the working of the great law of heredity. What these results were is shown in the history of His earthly ancestors. He came with such a heredity to share our sorrows and temptations and to give us the example of a sinless life.
The heart of the human father yearns over his son. He looks into the face of his little child and trembles at the thought of life’s peril. He longs to shield his dear one from Satan’s power, to hold him back from temptation and conflict. To meet a bitterer conflict and a more fearful risk, God gave His only-begotten Son so that the path of life might be made sure for our little ones.
“Herein is love.” Wonder, O heavens! and be astonished, O earth!”
