I don't know why I never saw it before. Right there in Exodus, chapter 3 – the Christmas story! We all know the foreshadowing of our redemption in later parts of the book of Exodus, but here it is in the opening chapters … the incarnation and mission of Christ.
Verse 7, God speaking: I have indeed seen the misery of my people … I have heard them crying out … I am concerned about their suffering. Then in verse 8: I have come down to rescue them … to bring them up.
And there you have it – God intently listening to the cry of His people; the Father purposefully taking action on behalf of His children; the Creator taking the form of the created; God Himself becoming one of us.
It's a saga as old as history itself. Older, really. You see, scripture also tells us that the Architect of the universe had designed a blueprint of redemption long before the world began. Sympathizing with our poverty, He became the gift. Understanding our sinful dilemma, He became the only viable solution. And knowing we'd need to hear it again and again, God wrote the message of His stubborn, loyal, enduring love throughout the chronicle of mankind.
A timeless story, isn't it? And “timeless” is an appropriate description for modern day believers who each year re-tell and re-live this best-loved-of-all narrative. Worshippers of all ages, of all backgrounds and of all stylistic preference celebrate with abandon. Cherished traditions join hands with fresh expressions of joy. Senior citizens can be seen caroling the story right alongside young children. We're united in the most incredible celebration imaginable, and for just a little while, our differences melt away, dispositions take a decidedly cheerful turn and if you listen carefully, you can still hear angels singing, “Peace on earth and mercy mild; God and sinners reconciled.”
Christmas. Yes, it's timeless.
But more than that, it's eternal.
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