Two key verses are found at the opening of the Christmas story:

“And she shall bring forth a son, and you shall call his name JESUS, for He shall save his people from their sins.” Matt. 1:21

“Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which means, God with us.”  Matt. 1:23 

(a prophecy found in Isa. 7:14)

It’s important to know that Jesus’ birth was not just another ordinary birth.  He was miraculously conceived in Mary’s womb.  He truly is God!  He lived among men as He had taken on himself the form of man; but He lived a sinless life.  As a result, at the end of His life, He was able to die for the sins of the world.

Yes, we need to believe that Jesus is God, but just knowing that won’t save us.  Jesus

“…is not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance (and be saved).”  II Pet. 3:9

His gift to us is eternal life if we will receive it.

Jesus came and lived WITH man, but the greatest thing is that when we trust Him as Savior and Lord He lives IN us.  (See Gal. 2:20 and Col. 1:27).  He is always right there with us to help us, to guide us, and to comfort us and so much more.  Can any other gift do this?  We have to emphatically say, “No!”

Spend time this Christmas season reflecting on this precious birth and ask yourself, “Have I truly received His gift of salvation?”