Tidings of Comfort and Joy

I think there is nothing more amazing than to know that God desires for all of his creation to come together in blissful joy and glorious harmony. Like the final chord in a great orchestral piece, God’s creation is heading for a marvelous goal. When we enjoy our inheritance we will have more than an overwhelming sense of wonder at God’s eternal goal for his creation. At Christmastime we celebrate God’s enactment of his central plan to bring perfect comfort and joy. The angel said to the shepherds, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:10-11 ESV)

The simple and bold proclamation is that because of the birth of Christ the Lord believers have no reason to fear. God’s active intervening love casts out fear! What kind of love has the Father given to us? It is an effective saving love. It is an all-powerful love. We can trust his steadfast love forever. In Christ God’s love is made real to us forever! Tidings of comfort and joy!

One baby pulls this off. This baby is the only Son of God. He is God with us. He exceeds all specifications for a savior. He is the perfect and only God/man. He is the one mediator between God and man. Trust no substitutes or auxiliary savors. Jesus Christ needs no help being our Savior, El Salvador! He is Christ the Lord.

Think of this section from Psalm 85 as a Christmas worship reading. Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of God’s every promise. He is what the LORD has spoken! In Jesus Christ steadfast love and faithfulness meet, and righteousness and peace kiss each other. To us a child is born, to us a son is given! He brings it all together in blissful joy and glorious harmony. Worship HIM!

Let me hear what God the LORD will speak,

for he will speak peace to his people, to his saints;

but let them not turn back to folly.

Surely his salvation is near to those who fear him,

that glory may dwell in our land.

Steadfast love and faithfulness meet;

righteousness and peace kiss each other.

Faithfulness springs up from the ground,

and righteousness looks down from the sky.

Yes, the LORD will give what is good,

and our land will yield its increase.

Righteousness will go before him

and make his footsteps a way.

(Psalm 85:8-13 ESV)