Why Did Jesus Come?

by Aleta Kay



         I love this time of year. I love the decorations, the joyful songs, the glee of little children. People seem to smile more this time of year. There’s a feeling of festivity.

          But what really makes the holiday for me is knowing that Jesus chose to come to earth to be born as a baby, in a lowly stable. He didn’t choose to be born to rich people. He didn’t choose to have the announcement of his birth proclaimed to the dignitaries and celebrities. He chose to have the event announced to lowly shepherds. Jesus chose to identify himself with poor, uneducated people, the downtrodden of the earth. Why?

          Because he knew the hearts of people. He knew the social elite would reject him (and they did as he grew up).

          Luke 2:9-15 describes the atmosphere of his birth and the reason he came. The angels proclaimed: “Glory to God in the highest; and on earth peace, good will toward men.”

          Colossians 3:15 says, “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts….” This indicates that peace is a choice. We choose to live at peace with others, or we choose to wallow in anger, bitterness, hatred, strife, etc. Jesus is the author, the source of peace—true peace.

          John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you…”

          Sometimes we can drum up our own peace but it usually doesn’t last long. If we want real peace we must go to the source of peace—Jesus. Have you ever noticed: when a REAL Christian faces tragedy, illness, disaster, death of a loved one, the initial reaction may be fear or anger, but it is quickly replaced by a peace the rest of the world can’t understand? God the Holy Spirit lives in our hearts and gives us comfort and a peace that tells us he will see us through whatever happens. God never promised he would keep us from heartache or trouble. He promised he would help us through everything. But he only does that for his children, and then only if we let him.

          So this holy season, take time to invite Jesus, the Prince of Peace, to be your savior, your peace. Ask him to forgive you of your sins and cleanse your heart from evil. Invite him to be your lord and savior. He’s waiting with open arms.