A Baby Messiah

Once upon a time people heard about a Messiah but didn't know what it meant so they guessed and here it is:

A professed or accepted leader of some hope or cause. Or
specifically a king who will be sent by God to save the Jews— a national hero who will vanquish the enemies of Israel. And eventually the entire world.

Little did they know the Messiah would become a human being miraculously born to an unmarried virgin named MARY who probably was as surprised if not more so than we were when we learned about it.

Mary married Joseph before Jesus was born and they traveled to Jerusalem with many others to pay their dues as citizens of a conquered country.

Because of the crowds there was no room in any of the inns so Mary gave birth with Joseph at her side when the heavens were ablaze with splendor causing the shepherds to tremble with fear while some of their associates hurried off to see what was happening and discovered the baby Messiah and showed their approval.

Before too long, Wise men who followed their star were led from the Far East and likewise bowed before the Infant Messiah and contributed wonderful gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.

By this time the ruling king got wind of a Messianic competitor who was just born and forced Mary and Joseph to flee for their lives with Jesus, ending up in faraway Egypt. Joseph was a craftsman—most likely not a wealthy individual—but was not hurting for sustenance thanks to the Wise Men's generosity.

Although we know very little of the family's journey from Bethlehem to Jerusalem, Egypt and back to Bethlehem, we rest assured that God's only Son, the Promised Messiah made certain that although this may not have been the expected entry into a hallowed Messianic Mission, it has resulted in one of the world's most glorious and glamorous Christmas Holidays ever experienced.

Today, we have beautiful gatherings, decorations, colorful lights, exciting gifts, exquisite songs like Away in a Manger, Silent Night, Holy Night, and even Mary, Did You Know?

Mary did you know that your baby boy would one day walk on water?
Mary did you know that your baby boy would save our sons and daughters?
Did you know that your baby boy has come to make you new?
This child that you've delivered will soon deliver you?
That sleeping child you're holding is the great I am . . .

The Messiah who only lived for 33 years is a Stranger to some and a Savior to others.

Who would have thought that this Baby Jesus would become the promised Messiah Savior of mankind?