God of Hope

¹ …. We must not just please ourselves. ² We should help others do what is right and build them up in the Lord. ³ For even Christ did not live to please Himself…. ⁵ May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other, as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus.... ¹³ I (Apostle Paul) pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in Him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.... ³³ And now may God, who gives us His peace, be with you all. Amen. Romans 15:1-3, 5, 13, 33 (NLT)

A New Year always brings hope! Hope for a better tomorrow, hope for new beginnings, and hope for a fresh start! For believers of God, we realize that a New Year brings a better tomorrow and new beginnings because the living God’s tender mercies and committed love are renewed every morning (see Lamentations 3:21-23, 25). Even more, believers of God look forward to a New Year because the living God is our hope for a better tomorrow and new beginnings (Romans 15:13; see also Psalm 33:22; Psalm 130:5, 7; Lamentations 3:21; Micah 7:7).

The living God is faithful, and He will continue to be faithful into the New Year and eternity (e.g., see Deuteronomy 7:9; Deuteronomy 32:4; Psalm 117:1-2; 1 Corinthians 1:9; 1 Corinthians 10:13; 2 Corinthians 1:18-20; 1 John 1:9). The Holy Scriptures were written long ago to teach us about God’s unending love (e.g., see Exodus 34:6-7; John 3:16; 1 John 4:7-8, 16), and the Holy Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled (Romans 15:4; see also Psalm 119:49-50; 2 Timothy 3:16). With God’s help and guidance, believers can always expect a favorable and good outcome.

More specifically, biblical hope is the confidence that what God has done for us in the past guarantees our participation in what God will do in the future (e.g., see Hebrews 11, great chapter of faith and hope). The living God is the Author of hope, and He alone is the ultimate object of hope (see Romans 15:13). Therefore, we can always trust in the living God for a better tomorrow and new beginnings (see Lamentations 3:24, 26, 32). Even more, everyone who looks to Him can absolutely count on His help, forgiveness, and compassion (e.g., see 2 Chronicles 7:13-14; Joel 2:13; Zechariah 1:3; Malachi 3:6-7; James 4:8).

For example, the prophet Jeremiah saw hope in all the sin and sorrow surrounding him and his fellow Jews (see Lamentation 3:21-27). Unfortunately, the prophet Jeremiah saw the downfall and destruction of God’s people living in Israel and Judah after their disobedience and unfaithfulness to the living God and His righteous commands (e.g., see Jeremiah 7:9-11, 30). Yet, the prophet Jeremiah also saw hope for the future and restoration (e.g., see Jeremiah 29:11-14; Jeremiah 30:11; Jeremiah 32:37-41; Jeremiah 33:17-18). The prophet Jeremiah discovered, “The faithful love of the LORD never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is His faithfulness; His mercies begin afresh each morning” (see Lamentations 3:22-23, NLT). Therefore, the prophet Jeremiah knew he could always trust in the living God (see Lamentations 3:24), and he rightfully called the living God the “Hope of Israel” (see Jeremiah 14:8; Jeremiah 17:13). The living God secures the futures of all who trust and hope in Him (e.g., see 1 Corinthians 13:13).

Another example is continual hope in the living God is Job. Job was a righteous and noble man that faithfully loved and obeyed God (e.g., see Job 1:1, 8; Job 2:3). Because of Job’s love and faithfulness to God, Job was a wealthy and blessed man with a loving family filled with happiness and joy (Job 1:2-4; see also Psalm 128:1-2). Despite Job’s faithfulness and obedience, the living God allowed the evil one to test Job, and the evil one brought upon Job a series of disasters on his health, family, and wealth (see Job 1:9-12; Job 2:4-7). Despite Job’s testing and troubles by the evil one, Job never lost his faith and hope in the living God – His Redeemer (see Job 13:15; Job 19:25). Job valued his faith in the living God even above his own life! Because of Job’s continual hope and faithfulness to the living God, God blessed Job with twice the wealth, twice the possessions, and twice the family and Job died an old man with full of days (see Job 42:10-17).

The prophet Isaiah is one more example for trustful hope in the living God. The prophet Isaiah predicted the coming destruction of Israel’s southern kingdom Judah that eventually occurred 586 BC. Around 586 BC, the land of Judah was devastated by the Babylonian army, and the Jews were taken captive. Jerusalem lied in ruins (see 2 Kings 25:1-21) just as Israel northern kingdom was destroyed by the Assyrians around 722 BC (see 2 Kings 17:7-23). However, the prophet Isaiah saw hope for Israel’s future! Beginning at Isaiah 40, the prophet Isaiah predicted future hope and joy for God’s people. The prophet Isaiah predicted Cyrus would arise to defeat the Babylonians and allow the Jews to return home to begin a fresh start (Isaiah 40 through Isaiah 48; see also Ezra 1:1-4). Even more, the prophet Isaiah predicted two further hopes for the future. The prophet Isaiah predicted the coming Messiah – the Lord Jesus, who would come as a Suffering Servant to bring redemption, forgiveness, and deliverance not only to the Jews but to the nations (see Isaiah 49 through Isaiah 55). Finally, in conclusion, the prophet Isaiah predicted a coming peace for all people in a new heaven and new earth when the Holy One of Israel – the living God – will rule as God of the whole earth.  

Therefore, the prophet Isaiah encouraged everyone to always hope in the everlasting LORD God, who is the Creator of all the earth (Isaiah 40:28; see also Genesis 1:1-2; Deuteronomy 33:27; Psalm 90:2; Isaiah 42:5).  The everlasting LORD God never grows tired, weak, nor weary, and He graciously gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak (Isaiah 40:28-29; see also Genesis 18:14; Psalm 68:35; Jeremiah 31:25). The prophet Isaiah proclaimed that everyone who hopes and trusts in the LORD God will renew their strength and will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint (Isaiah 40:31; see also Psalm 37:9; Psalm 40:1).

The living God graciously gives everyone His eternal love, life, and mercies who humbly and patiently seek, depend upon, and love Him (Jeremiah 3:23, 25; e.g., see also Exodus 34:6-7; Deuteronomy 5:10; Deuteronomy 7:9; Nehemiah 1:5; Daniel 9:4; Amos 5:4-6). Even more, the faithful and loving God graciously responds with help and rescue when we wholeheartedly seek and ask Him (e.g., see Jeremiah 17:5-8; Matthew 7:7-11; Luke 11:9-13; Luke 18:1-8). That is why the Lord Jesus Christ teaches that we should always pray and hope in the living God and never give up (Luke 18:1-8; see also Romans 12:12; Ephesians 6:18; Colossians 4:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:17). Even during seasons of difficulty and hardship, the living God brings His discipline to produce right behavior, true living, and genuine worship that pleases Him (see Lamentations 3:38-42). The living God will never abandon nor leave you (Lamentations 3:31; see also Deuteronomy 31:6, 8; Joshua 1:5; Psalm 37:25; Matthew 28:20; 2 Corinthians 4:9 Hebrews 13:5-6).

For this reason, it is useless to place our hope in wealth (e.g., see Psalm 49:6-12; Psalm 52:6-7; Proverbs 11:4, 28; Jeremiah 9:23; Jeremiah 48:7); houses and possessions (e.g., see Isaiah 32:17-18; 1 Timothy 6:17-19); government leaders (e.g., see Psalm 118:9; Psalm 146:3; Jeremiah 17:5); empires and armies (e.g., 2 Kings 18:19-24; Isaiah 31:1-3); or even the Jerusalem Temple (e.g., see Jeremiah 7:1-7). The living God is our only hope, refuge, and strength (e.g., see Deuteronomy 32:4, 15, 18; Psalm 14:6; Psalm 18:2; Psalm 61:3; Psalm 62:2; Psalm 73:28; Psalm 91:9; Psalm 119:49-50; Isaiah 26:4; Romans 15:13). Even more, the living God has given believers hope in His Son, Jesus Christ (see 1 Pet. 1:3). The Lord Jesus Christ is our hope (see Colossians 1:27; 1 Timothy 1:1; Titus 2:13). Because in Jesus Christ the living God reconciled the world to Himself (see 2 Corinthians 5:19), hope in the Lord Jesus Christ is one with hope in His Father, the living God. Therefore, believers of God and His Son Jesus Christ can live in the present with confidence and face the future with whatever trials may come with courage and hope (e.g., see John 16:33; Romans 5:3-4; 1 Corinthians 13:13; Hebrews 6:19-20). Our hope is sure: we are on the victory side!

References

Life Application Study Bible (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Pub., 2005).

J.I. Packer. Concise Theology: A Guide to Historic Christian Beliefs (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 1993).

Butler, Trent C. Holman Bible Dictionary (Nashville, TN: Broadman and Holman Publishers, 1991).

New Student Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1992).

Why Is Christmas So Important? Jesus Is Our Hope

¹⁵ Everyone was expecting the Messiah to come soon, and they were eager to know whether John (the Baptist) might be the Messiah. Luke 3:15

Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year! During the Christmas season, many people have a joyful hope and excitement, despite any external circumstances and troubles. That joyful hope is the Lord Jesus Christ!  The Lord Jesus Christ is our eternal and blessed hope (Titus 2:13; see also 1 Timothy 6:17). Believers of the Lord Jesus Christ confidently look forward to His return to earth - the Lord Jesus’ second coming (e.g., see Titus 3:7; 1 John 3:2-3). Presently for believers of the Lord Jesus, He is our heart peace and hope of glory, despite any temporary earthly suffering and pain (Colossians 1:27; see also Romans 5:1-5).

In the first century, many Jews also eagerly looked forward to the coming of the Messiah (Christ). The Hebrew word “Messiah” is the equivalent of the Greek word “Christ,” which means “Anointed One.” For four centuries - the four hundred years of God’s silence after the Old Testament ended with the prophet Malachi, the Jews had waited and wondered when the long-awaited Messiah would arrive at earth. Then suddenly, stories began to spread about the birth of a special Baby Boy in Bethlehem! Moreover, some shepherds began spreading the news of a special Baby after seeing and hearing a glorious heavenly choir of angels announcing His birth as the Savior of the world (see Luke 2:8-20). Then, several wise men (also known as Magi) arrived from the eastern lands to Jerusalem seeking the Messiah and King after seeing a great star in the heavenly skies (see Matthew 2:1-6). 

When John the Baptist first appeared, many of the Jewish religious leaders thought he was the long-awaited Messiah (e.g., see Luke 3:15; John 1:19-20). The Holy Scriptures predicted that when the Messiah comes, prophecy will reappear (e.g., see Joel 2:28-32; Malachi 3:1; Malachi 4:5). John the Baptist was obviously a great prophet.  John the Baptist spoke like a great prophet as he boldly proclaimed the message of repentance - turning away from sin and turning wholeheartedly to the living God (e.g., see Matthew 3:1-3; Mark 1:4; Luke 3:3). However, John the Baptist confirmed to the Jewish religious leaders that he was not the Messiah, but the living God had sent him to prepare the world for the Messiah’s coming (see Matthew 3:3, 11-12; Mark 1:2-3; Luke 3:3-6, 16-17; John 1:6-8, 23, 29; see also Isaiah 40:3-5).

Many Jews expected the Messiah would be a military or political deliverer like King David that would finally defeat Israel’s enemies and usher in an era of peace and prosperity for God’s people. There was widespread hope among the first century Jews that a king from David’s line would come and re-establish David’s dynasty and reign in righteousness and justice on David’s throne in Jerusalem. This hope had its foundation in 2 Samuel 7:11-16 of the Old Testament, where the living LORD God promised King David that He would raise up descendants after him and establish his throne forever. With the decline and subsequent collapse of Israel as a kingdom, the Old Testament prophets predicted the coming of the Messiah and King, who would deliver God’s people and reign forever on David’s throne (e.g., see Isaiah 9:6-7; Isaiah 11:1-5; Jeremiah 23:5-6; Jeremiah 33:15-16; Ezekiel 37:24-25).

The Gospel writers Matthew and Luke take a special interest in showing that the Lord Jesus is truly the long-awaited and promised King from David’s family line and the Messiah (e.g., see Matthew 1:1, 16-17; Matthew 1:20; Matthew 2:2, 6-7; Luke 1:26-27, 32-33, 69-70; Luke 3:15-16). Instead arriving to earth with great fanfare as the long-awaited King and Messiah, the living LORD God sent His only begotten Son, the Lord Jesus, as a poor Jewish baby in a rustic stable in Bethlehem (e.g., see Micah 5:2; Matthew 2:1-2, 5-8; Luke 2:4-7, 15-16; John 1:1-5, 14-18). This young Baby, who is King and Messiah, was also God with us and the Son of the living God (see Matthew 1:1, 21, 23; Matthew 16:16; Mark 1:1; John 20:31). The living LORD God sent His Son Jesus Christ to earth at just the right time to be God with us, our Emmanuel, to reveal Him and His eternal love for the world (Matthew 1:23; see also Isaiah 7:14; John 1:1-5, 14-18; John 3:16; Romans 9:5; Galatians 4:4; Colossians 1:15-20). In the Lord Jesus Christ, God came to earth and close to humans (e.g., see Hebrews 1:3). Thus, the Lord Jesus is fully God and fully Man, as the Son of the living God, as well as the long-awaited King from David’s family line and Messiah (Christ) (e.g., see Matthew 16:16; Mark 1:1; Luke 9:20; Luke 18:38; Luke 19:38; John 20:31; Romans 1:3-4). 

In summary, Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year!  During the Christmas season, we celebrate the Lord Jesus Christ! Jesus is the long-awaited and promised Messiah (Christ) who brings salvation and new life to all who trust and believe in Him as the Son of the living God (e.g., see Matthew 1:21, 23; Mark 14:61-62; Luke 2:10-11; John 3:16-17; John 4:42; 1 John 4:9-10, 14). Jesus is the fulfillment of Old Testament Scriptures as the long-awaited King from the family line of David and Son of the living God that bring peace to earth (e.g., see Isaiah 9:6-7; Matthew 1:1; Matthew 2:2; Matthew 16:16; Mark 9:7; Luke 1:32-33; Luke 3:17; Revelation 22:6). Even more, Jesus is the new Israel that brings the living Lord God’s salvation to all who trust and believe in Him (see John 3:16)! One day the long-awaited Savior of the world will return in the clouds of heaven, and everyone will finally acknowledge Jesus Christ as the Lord of all (e.g., Acts 1:9-11; Acts 2:36; Philippians 2:10-11).

⁶ For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. ⁷ Of the increase of His government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over His kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this. Isaiah 9:6-7 ESV

Why Is Christmas So Important? Jesus Offers Salvation

1 At that time the Roman emperor, (Caesar) Augustus, decreed that a census (taxation, registration) should be taken throughout the Roman Empire. 2 (This was the first census taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria). 3 All returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census (taxation, registration). 4 And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea (Judah), David’s ancient home. He traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. 5 He took with him Mary, his fiancée (espoused or betroth wife), who was now obviously pregnant. 6 And while they were there (in Bethlehem), the time came for her Baby to be born. 7 She (Mary) gave birth to her first Child, a Son (Jesus). She wrapped Him snugly in strips of cloth (swaddling clothing) and laid Him in a manger, because there was no lodging (no room) available for them.

8 That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. 9 Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, 10 but the angel reassured them (shepherds). “Do not be afraid!” he said. “I bring you Good News that will bring great joy to all people. 11 The Savior — yes, the Messiah (Christ, Anointed One), the Lord — has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! 12 And you will recognize Him by this sign: You will find a Baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth (swaddling clothing), lying in a manger.” Luke 2:1-12 (NLT)

Christmas is truly the most wonderful time of the year! During the Christmas season, we celebrate the living LORD God Almighty graciously sending His only begotten Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, to earth to bring salvation and light to all people of the world (e.g., see Matthew 1:21, 23, Luke 2:10-11, 30; John 1:4; John 3:16-17). For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all humanity through the Lord Jesus Christ (e.g., see Ephesians 2:5, 8-9; Titus 2:11).

The details of the Lord Jesus Christ's birth are surprisingly scarce in the Holy Scriptures. The Gospels of Mark and John do not discuss the Lord Jesus Christ's birth. The Gospel of Matthew provides a few stories surrounding the Lord Jesus Christ's birth (see Matthew 1:18-25). Luke's message is the only Gospel to cover the actual birth of the Lord Jesus Christ (see Luke 2:1-20). Most Christmas pageants rely heavily on Luke's Gospel for Jesus' birth story. Also, only Luke's Gospel records a brief glimpse into the Lord Jesus' early years (see Luke 2:41-52). For this reason, many Biblical scholars believe Luke interviewed Mary, the mother of the Lord Jesus, during his thorough investigation of Jesus' life (see Luke 1:1-4). Luke was not an eyewitness of Jesus' life, but Luke carefully interviewed many who were actually eyewitnesses of the life, death, and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. As the Apostle Paul's traveling companion, Luke probably met many eyewitnesses of the Lord Jesus Christ.

In his Gospel, Luke wanted everyone to know that the long-awaited and promised Messiah of the Old Testament had some in the Lord Jesus (e.g., see Luke 1:32-33, 69-70)! The Lord Jesus' life, death, and resurrection confirm that He is truly the Messiah, and that He brings restoration, salvation, and forgiveness to all through faith and obedience in Him (e.g., see Luke 24:47; Romans 1:3-4).

At the time of the Lord Jesus Christ's birth, the Gospel writer Luke states that the Roman emperor Caesar Augustus issued a mandatory decree that a census be taken throughout the Roman Empire (see Luke 2:1-2). Some Biblical translations refer to this census as a registration or taxation. Everyone throughout the Roman Empire was required returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census (see Luke 2:3). Because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he was required to return to Bethlehem in Judea (Judah), David’s ancient home (Luke 2:4, 11; see also 1 Samuel 16:1; 1 Samuel 17:12, 15; 1 Samuel 20:6). Amazingly, the sovereign and living LORD God used the decree of Caesar Augustus to fulfill the prophecy of Micah 5:2. Many years earlier the Old Testament prophet Micah predicted a great Ruler would come from Bethlehem of the tribe of Judah (Micah 5:2; see also Matthew 2:2-6; John 7:42). Ultimately, the living God controls and orders the world and not humans!

Joseph traveled to Bethlehem from the small town of Nazareth in Galilee with Mary, his fiancée (see Luke 2:4-5). The virgin Mary was engaged and pledged to marry Joseph. Before Joseph and Mary came together sexually, Mary became pregnant with God's Son Jesus through God's Holy Spirit (Matthew 1:18; 20-21, 23; Luke 1:26-27, 35; see also, Isaiah 7:14). Interestingly, the Lord Jesus' earthly parents, Joseph and Mary, were descendants of King David (see Matthew 1:16, 20; Luke 1:27; Luke 2:4; Luke 3:23); and therefore, fulfilling the prophecy that an eternal and righteous King will come from the family line of David (e.g., see 2 Samuel 7:11-16; Psalm 132:11-12; Isaiah 9:6-7; Jeremiah 31:15; Matthew 1:1; Matthew 2:2; Luke 1:32-33). Thus, the Lord Jesus Christ was the Son of the living God through the power of the Holy Spirit (e.g., see Matthew 3:16-17; Matthew 16:16; Mark 1:1; Luke 1:32-33, 35; Luke 3:21-22; John 20:31), and also the long-awaited eternal King of Israel from the line of King David promised from the Old Testament (e.g., see Matthew 2:2; Matthew 27:11, 37; Mark 15:2; Luke 23:38; John 1:49; John 18:33-37). Even more, the Lord Jesus Christ was God incarnate (human flesh) who appeared in human form and the Word of God (e.g., see Isaiah 9:6; Matthew 1:21, 23, John 1:1-5,14; Romans 9:5; Philippians 2:6, 8). Furthermore, Jesus Christ is the long-awaited Messiah predicted by the Old Testament prophets (e.g., Isaiah 9:6-7; Isaiah 11:1-5). Jesus is truly a wonderful Child!

At the time of the census, Mary was now obviously pregnant with the Baby Jesus (see Luke 2:5). While in Bethlehem, Mary went into labor and the time came for her Baby to be born (see Luke 2:6). Mary gave birth to her first Child, the Lord Jesus, and she wrapped the Baby Jesus snugly in strips of cloth or swaddling clothing, and laid Him tenderly in a manger (some translations say feeding trough for animals) because there was no lodging available for them in the Bethlehem inn (see Luke 2:7). Amazingly, the greatest miracle in world history, the eternal Son of the living God being born as a Baby, happened in a remote stable of the small town of Bethlehem!

On the night of the Lord Jesus Christ's birth in Bethlehem, there were some shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep (see Luke 2:8). Then suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among the shepherds, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded these shepherds (see Luke 2:9). Upon seeing the angel of the Lord, the shepherds were frighten and terrified (see Luke 2:9). However, the angel of the Lord reassured and comforted these terrified shepherds and said, “Do not be afraid” (see Luke 2:10). Fear was a common reaction to angelic appearances and encouragement was needed (see also Luke 1:13).

Throughout the birth narrative of the Lord Jesus Christ, an angel of the Lord appears with news from heaven (e.g., see Matthew 1:20, 24; Matthew 2:13,19; Luke 1:11, Luke 2:9). The angel of the Lord is identified as Gabriel (see Luke 1:19, 26). The Hebrew name for angel is "messenger." Gabriel's ministry assignment involves proclaiming special messages concerning God's plans (e.g., see Daniel 8:16; Daniel 9:21). In the Holy Scriptures, Gabriel and Michael are the only angels named.   

Then, the angel of the Lord announced the greatest news of the Lord Jesus’s birth by declaring, “I bring you Good News that will bring great joy to all people” (see Luke 2:10, NLT). Yes, all people of the world! Regardless of our nationality, race, religion, culture, sexual category, or financial status, the living LORD God sent His only begotten Son to give salvation to the world through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ's life, death, and resurrection  (e.g., see Matthew 1:21, 23; Luke 1:68, Luke 2:11, 21, 30-32; John 4:42; Ephesians 2:8-9; 1 John 4:14-16). The Lord Jesus Christ was not intended for Israel alone but for the whole world and among all nations - Jews and Gentiles (Luke 2:32; see also Matthew 1:21; Matthew 28:18-20; John 4:42; Philippians 2:9-11)! This is truly Good News (Gospel) that the Savior of the World has come (e.g., see John 3:16; Acts 5:31; 1 John 4:9-10). Jesus Christ is our Savior!

The angel of the Lord announced to these shepherds that the Savior and the Messiah (also known as Christ or the Anointed One), the Lord had been born in the small town of Bethlehem (Luke 2:11; see also Micah 5:2; Matthew 1:16, 21, 23; John 7:42; John 11:27; Acts 2:36). Three titles were given to Jesus in the angel's announcement: Savior, Messiah, and Lord (Luke 2:11; see also Luke 1:69; Acts 5:31, 42; Acts 13:23; Acts 17:3). These titles of Jesus proclaim His greatness - He is fully God and fully human (see also Galatians 4:4-5; Philippians 2:7). The Hebrew word "Messiah," is the equivalent of the Greek word "Christ," which means "Anointed One." Moreover, the angel of the Lord told the shepherds that they will recognize the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ by a special sign: "You will find a Baby wrapped snugly in swaddling clothing, lying in a manger" (Luke 2:12; see also Isaiah 7:14).

Then suddenly, the angel of the Lord was joined by a multitude  of heavenly hosts — the armies of heaven — praising God (see Luke 2:13). In other words, there were thousands of heavenly angels celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ!  These multitude of heavenly angels sang, "Glory to God in highest, and on earth peace, good will toward all men" (Luke 2:13-14; see also Revelation 5:11). This brief hymn is called Gloria in Excelsis Deo. Through our faith and obedience to the Lord Jesus Christ, we have peace and reconciliation with the living LORD God - the Father of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (e.g., see Romans 5:1; 2 Corinthians 5:17-19; Colossians 1:20). The Lord Jesus Christ is the Prince of Peace (see Isaiah 9:6; Ephesians 2:14, 17), and He has promised this peace to His disciples, who trust and obey Him (e.g., see Isaiah 26:3, 12; John 14:27; John 16:33; Acts 10:36; Philippians 4:7). The peace Jesus Christ gives is a peace of mind and soul!

When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go to Bethlehem! Let’s see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about” (see Luke 2:15). The shepherds made haste and hurried to the small town of Bethlehem and found Mary and Joseph with Baby Jesus lying in the manger (Luke 2:16; see also Luke 2:7, 12). After seeing the Lord Jesus Christ, the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this most wonderful Child (see Luke 2:17). Everyone who heard the shepherds’ story were astonished and amazed (see Luke 2:18). The shepherds went back to their flocks, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen just as the angel of the Lord had told them (see Luke 2:20).

Then, Joseph and Mary took the Baby Jesus eight days after His birth to the Temple in Jerusalem (see Luke 2:21). On that eighth day, the Lord Jesus Christ was circumcised and officially named Jesus (Luke 2:21; see also Genesis 17:9-11; Leviticus 12:3). The name Jesus was previously given to his earthly parents Joseph and Mary by the angel Gabriel even before the Lord Jesus was conceived in Mary's womb (Luke 2:21; see also Matthew 1:21, 25; Luke 1:31). Jesus is the Greek form of Joshua, which means "the Lord saves" or "the Lord is salvation." The living LORD God, who is the Father of the Lord Jesus Christ, has exalted His Son to the highest place and given Him the Name that is above every name (see Philippians 2:9). One day at the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, every knee should bow and every tongue will confess and worship that He is Lord of all (see Philippians 2:10-11)!

Next the Baby Jesus was presented and dedicated to the LORD God as required by the Law of Moses (Luke 2:22-23, 27; see also Galatians 4:4). The account of Luke 2:21-40 reveals Joseph and Mary's obedience and faithfulness to the living LORD God. The Law of the Lord says, “If a woman’s first child is a boy, he must be dedicated to the LORD” (see Luke 2:23). The firstborn of both people and animals are to be dedicated to the living God for service and worship (see also Exodus 13:1-2, 12). Also, the Law of Moses required that after the birth of a child both the mother must be purified and the new baby must be dedicated to the Lord. So, Joseph and Mary took their newborn Baby to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (Luke 2:22; see also Leviticus 12:1-4).

Then, Joseph and Mary offered the sacrifice required in the Law of the Lord — “either a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons” (Luke 2:24; see also Leviticus 5:11; Leviticus 12:6-8). In the Law of the Lord, a woman had the option of offering to the LORD God a lamb or in the alternative two doves or two young pigeons, if she could not afford a lamb, for atonement for her sins (see Leviticus 12:6-8). The fact the Mary offered not a lamb but a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons indicated Mary was poor and not well-off (see Luke 2:24).

Thus, at least three ceremonies were required after the birth of a child. First, a circumcision was to take place on the eighth day after a son's birth after the mother's seven days of ceremonial uncleanness (see Leviticus 12:1-3). The newborn child was normally given a name at this point. Second, a ceremony was involved with the presentation and dedication of the firstborn son to the LORD God. As it is written in the Law of the LORD God, every firstborn male that opens the womb must be set apart and dedicated and called holy to the LORD God (see Exodus 13:1-2, 12; Numbers 8:17). Then finally, there was the purification of the mother, celebrated forty days after a son's birth or eighty days after having a daughter (see Leviticus 12:1-8).

While at the Temple in Jerusalem, a man named Simeon approached Joseph and Mary with the Baby Jesus (see Luke 2:27-28). Simeon was a righteous and devout, as he carefully and cautiously observed the divine Law of the Lord and the Holy Spirit was upon him (see Luke 2:25). Also, Simeon was eagerly waiting for the Messiah (Christ, Anointed One of God, and Word of God) with His salvation to come and rescue (redeem) Israel - consolation of Israel (Luke 2:25-26, 30, 38; see also Isaiah 40:1; Isaiah 61:2). Then, the Holy Spirit of God divinely revealed to Simeon that he would not see death until he had seen the Lord’s Messiah (see Luke 2:26). As the Lord Jesus underwent His ceremonies at the Temple, the Holy Spirit prompted and led Simeon to Mary and Joseph presenting the Baby Jesus to the Lord as the Law required (see Luke 2:27). Simeon took the Baby Jesus into his arms and praised God, saying,

Sovereign Lord, now let Your servant to leave this world and die in peace, as You have promised. I have seen Your salvation, which You have prepared for all people. He (Jesus) is a Light to reveal God to the nations, and He is the glory of Your people Israel. Luke 2:28-32; see also Isaiah 42:6; Isaiah 46:13; Isaiah 49:6, 9; Isaiah 52:10; John 8:12; Acts 26:23.

Upon hearing Simeon's confession, Joseph and Mary were amazed at what Simeon was saying about their Baby Jesus (see Luke 2:33). Simeon was careful to point out to Joseph and Mary that their Lord Jesus Christ brings salvation to all people and all nations, and not just the Jews (see Luke 2:31-32). Then Simeon blessed Joseph, Mary, and the Baby Jesus (see Luke 2:34). However, Simeon warned Mary,

This Child is appointed and destined to cause many in Israel to fall, but He will be a joy to many others. He has been sent as a sign from God, but many will oppose Him.  As a result, the deepest and secret thoughts of many hearts will be revealed and disclosed. And a sword will pierce your very soul. Luke 2:34-35; see also Isaiah 8:14-15; Matthew 21:44; 1 Corinthians 1:23-24; 2 Corinthians 2:16; 1 Peter 2:8-9.

Next, a prophetess named Anna, who was a widow, approach Joseph and Mary with their Baby Jesus. Anna also faithfully worshipped and served the living God like Simeon at the Temple (see Luke 2:36-37). Anna came along just as Simeon was talking with Mary and Joseph, and she began praising God (see Luke 2:38). The prophetess Anna talked about the Baby Jesus to everyone who had been waiting expectantly for the living God to redeem and rescue Jerusalem (Luke 2:38; see also Luke 1:68; Luke 2:25).

At the time of the Lord Jesus Christ's birth, the people of Israel were oppressed by the Roman government and longed for the promised Messiah (see Luke 3:15). Many Jews anticipated the Messiah (Christ) would be a military hero like King David and deliver Israel from Roman oppression as promised from the Old Testament (e.g., see 2 Samuel 7:11-16). Instead, the living LORD God sent His only begotten Son the Lord Jesus Christ as a Jewish Baby to the small town of Bethlehem as predicted by the prophet Micah (see Micah 5:2; Matthew 2:1, 4-6; Luke 2:4-7, 11). The Lord Jesus Christ was full of His Father's Spirit, grace, and truth (see John 1:14). All who accept and believe the Lord Jesus Christ become wise children of His Father and receive eternal salvation (see John 1:12-13; John 3:16; Ephesians 2:8-9). Santa cannot save you but Jesus can!

When Joseph and Mary had fulfilled all the requirements of the Law of the Lord, they returned to their own town, Nazareth in Galilee (Luke 2:39; see also Matthew 2:23; Luke 1:26; Luke 2:4).  Luke's Gospel does not mention the coming of the wise men (Magi) from the eastern lands, the danger from Herod,  or the flight to Egypt (see Matthew 2:1-23). In Nazareth, the young Jesus grew up healthy and strong, and He was filled with wisdom, and God’s grace (favor and spiritual blessings) was on Him (Luke 2:40, 51-52; see Luke 4:16; 1 Corinthians 1:24).

Jesus spent His childhood in Galilee, in the small town of Nazareth. Except for festival times when the Lord Jesus Christ traveled to Jerusalem, Jesus showed a marked preference for small towns and rural areas, especially in the remote northern region of Galilee. The New Testament explicitly identifies Jesus as “the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee” (Matthew 21:11; see also Mark 1:24; Luke 18:37; John 19:19). Some may question can anything good come out of Nazareth (see John 1:46). The answer is yes! The Savior of the World came out of Nazareth – the Lord Jesus Christ!

References
Amplified Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1987).
ESV Study Bible, English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2008).
New Student Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1992).
Ryrie Study Bible: New American Standard Bible (Chicago, IL: Moody, 1995).
The King James Study Bible (Uhrichsville, OH: Barbour Publishing, 2011).
Zondervan NIV Study Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2008).