For Unto Us a Child is Born (Part 2)

Thought for the Day is from Lesley.

When Jesus was born a few of those around received revelation to fill them with increasing wonder about the baby born into the world. 
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The Saviour, yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! (Luke 2:11)
 

Messiah -  Mashiach, the Hebrew word meaning Messiah, means "the one anointed with oil." The custom of anointing with oil is a ritual act designed to elevate those designated for priestly, royal or prophetic roles. This revelation was given to ordinary shepherds about a tiny baby lying in a  stable. Take courage! That anointed One is in your situation no matter what it is. 
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Then Simeon blessed them, and he said to Mary, the baby’s mother, “This child is destined to cause many in Israel to fall, and many others to rise. He has been sent as a sign from God, but many will oppose him." (Luke 2:34)

Simeon called Him 'child' to his mother.. So normal, insignificant but something we can understand. Yet we need to remember it is God who has come into our world to help normal, insignificant human beings who are opposed by the enemy of souls. Be encouraged!

 “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star as it rose, and we have come to worship him.”  (Matt 2:2)

The people who were first to call Him king,  and who came the longest road at His birth  to do so did not have the revelation of all God's names that the Jews had. Yet they were very much drawn to Him. Take courage if you puzzle over situations - do what they did, come and worship the King.

 "...for a ruler will come from you who will be the shepherd for my people Israel". (Matt 2:6)

He would be ruler but also the shepherd.  We can only marvel, even at birth all His provision for our lives is so clear in His names. Let your faith in Him rise despite what the day may bring.

And you will recognise him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger. (Luke 2:12)

The angel said they would recognise the Messiah by this sign - He would be a baby wrapped snugly in an animal feeding place. They saw that poverty, yet the care and love shown to Him  - He was well wrapped. They also saw two unknown people - Mary and Joseph - who were well known to God. One fragile baby but all the power of the Godhead in the flesh. Even at His birth, heaven gave signs that men could recognise if they wanted to find Him

Lesley