by Annette Maraist

Created on: October 26, 2008

What does Christmas really mean? The first Christmas, 2000 years ago, the Saviour was born in Bethlehem. This wondrous event was foretold 800 years before it happened by the prophet Isaiah (Isaiah 9). He wrote, "The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned. For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." We must not forget that Christmas is the celebration of Jesus' birth.

The archangel Gabriel appeared to Mary, revealing to her that she would be the mother of Jesus. The angel told her, "Greetings, you who are highly favored. The Lord is with you."(Luke 1:25) The Holy Spirit would make it possible for her to give birth, as she was a virgin. The baby would be called "Jesus", which means "Yahweh Saves". Another name for Jesus is "Emmanuel", which means "God is with us".

An angel also appeared to Joseph (Jesus' father) in a dream. Joseph was wondering if he should secretly break his engagement to Mary, as she was with child. He was an honorable man, and wanted to do what was best for Mary. The angel told Joseph not to worry about bringing Mary home as his wife, for what was conceived in her was of the Holy Spirit.

Mary and Joseph trusted in God, and they let God guide them. They traveled to Bethlehem, where they stopped at a crowded inn. There was no room inside, so they settled down in a manger. Here the Prince of Peace was born.

Guided by a radiant star wise men and local shepards visited the child. The wise men brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. They knew this was no ordinary child!

True light, true hope, true joy are possible because of that first Christmas. God communicated with us, and still does, thru Jesus Christ. Jesus makes it possible for us to personally know God. Thru Jesus' approximately thirty-three years on this earth we learn the way in which God wants for us to live- the way to everlasting life. Jesus taught us that to love is divine- that peace is the answer. When Christmas-time comes, and people behave a little more kindly- a little bit more gently- that is a reflection of the Christ within them. Christmas reminds us of the way Jesus intends for life to be- loving, giving, peaceful. And that joy and wonder are still possible.

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