The hope of Israel was a Savior to come. From the first indication of God’s plan (Gen.3:15), the people of God lived in hope of seeing the Redeemer and Savior of man. Prophets carried the message though sometimes not fully understanding what they were inspired by God to deliver (II Pet. 1:20-21). Godly women of old desired to bring forth children in hopes of being part of the coming salvation. Even to be a part of the bloodline was considered a great honor, but to be the chosen mother of Emmanuel, that was the honor of the ages. God honored the life of a virgin by the name of Mary in selecting her to bear Jesus.
The conception and birth of Jesus was exemplary in every way. It involved the Holy Spirit of God and the purity of Mary with the care of a just man Joseph.This was a one-time event for all the ages (Heb. 9:26-28). It produced a union of God and man through Mary (Luke 3:23-38). A gift beyond all gifts, priceless beyond understanding (II Cor. 9:15) was realized in this concise statement: “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).
The devil was put on notice as the world was introduced to the Savior, the Son of God, Jesus Christ. In Christ salvation came to the world. The divine blood he shed atoned for the sin of all men old and new (Heb. 10:4). All the blood offerings sacrificed before Christ only rolled the atonement forward until the price could be paid in full. The fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham (Gen. 12:3) and the answer to “an honest and good heart” (Luke 8:15). Those noble ones who searched the scriptures could find redemption and inherit the promise of old becoming members of the family of faith traced all the way back to Abraham (Gal. 3:27-29)—a royal bloodline leading to an “holy priesthood” (I Pet. 2:5).
It was a plan like no other! (John 3:16). The plan was in place before the beginning of time (Eph. 3:9), revealed in bits and pieces along the way to Calvary. A Prince of Peace (Gen. 49:10), a sacrificial Lamb (Isa. 53), a priest and a king (Zech. 6:13) and one who was a companion to God (Zech. 13:7) all revealed by the birth of Jesus in the city of David (Luke 2:11). Thousands of years and hundreds of prophecies were fulfilled in Jesus Christ.
“Mary did you know?” as the song of praise asks, and the answer is how could she have known or comprehended the full extent of the honor given her by her almighty Father. An honor that recognized her purity, dedication, and devotion. An honor of the ages given to one of flesh who would deliver God’s Son. “Joy to the world, the Lord is come!” Can you comprehend such a gift? It was all done for you, “Praise His blessed, holy name, salvation has been brought down”!
David Hill