Isaiah 53:5-6
5 But he was wounded for our transgressions;
he was crushed for our iniquities;
upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace,
and with his stripes we are healed.
6 All we like sheep have gone astray;
we have turned every one to his own way;
and the LORD has laid on him
the iniquity of us all.
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It is a good thing to read a passage such as Isaiah 53 as Christmas approaches. As we find ourselves just a week from celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, we ought not forget the death of Jesus as well. While we decorate our homes, sing joyful songs, and plan to give gifts in celebration of our Lord’s coming, we ought also to remember that he came for a purpose.
Today, as you hear Christmas songs or see Christmas lights, remember that there is something more to the story of Christ than a baby in a manger. Remember that the child born in Bethlehem grew up, lived a perfect life, and took upon himself the punishment for sins he did not commit. Remember that the baby in the manger grew up to become the sacrifice for your sins and mine. Remember, and give God even greater thanks for Jesus.
Dear Lord, I thank you for this joyful season in which we, as your people, remember the birth of Jesus. Yet I also do not want to forget the purpose of the entire story of Jesus. Lord, I will not forget Jesus’ death. I must not forget what he came to accomplish. And even now, I give you thanks for Jesus’ entire life, including his sacrificial death on the cross for my sins. I acknowledge that I have no hope for salvation apart from the risen Lord Jesus. I pray that you will bring this back to the forefront of my mind as I celebrate Jesus’ birth this Christmas.
Pastor Travis Peterson 