December 4: I Knew You Would Come!

For the Son of Man has come to save that which was lost. Matthew 18:11 (NASB)

Christmas isn’t only about a baby in a manger. The true meaning of Christmas lies beyond the sentimental, earthly trappings we commonly associate with Christmas. There’s a powerful, glorious gospel revealed in the event.

As promised, God came to us! He didn’t come just to visit; He came to save and help us forever. This powerful, gospel promise of God revealed in Christmas should resound in our hearts upon each glance at the baby.

Two soldiers became fast friends during WWI. One was fatally wounded as he courageously raced toward enemy lines. His friend bolted out of the trench, hoisted him on his shoulder, and carried him back, but not without also being mortally wounded. As both men lay dying, their officer scolded the second brave warrior for carelessness.

The dying solder countered, “It was worth it. When I got there, my friend whispered, ‘Jim, I knew you would come.’”

Imagine Jesus looking to earth and seeing the human race lying mortally wounded on the battlefield. Christ is born. God courageously passes onto the battlefield. Each breath moves Him closer to us. Hoisting our sin on His shoulders, He bears us safely into His Father’s arms through His substitutionary death on a cross.

Lord, we whisper in prayer and worship, “I knew You would come.”

Norm Wakefield