JEFF TURNER

The world stood on the brink of a divine moment. Prophecies whispered through generations were about to be fulfilled in the most unexpected way. Caesar Augustus, unknowingly playing a part in God’s grand design, issued a decree that would force a young couple to travel to Bethlehem – exactly as the ancient prophecies had foretold.

Mary and Joseph journeyed from Nazareth, a trip of about 70 miles, to the small town of Bethlehem. Every step was predetermined, every detail orchestrated by a plan far greater than human understanding. The prophecy from Micah was clear – the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem, the “house of bread,” a place that would become synonymous with hope.

When they arrived, there was no grand welcome. No palace awaited the King of kings. Instead, a humble stable became the birthplace of Jesus – the eternal God who had always existed, now entering human history as a vulnerable infant. This was no ordinary birth, but the arrival of the Redeemer Isaiah had spoken about – Emmanuel, “God with us.”

The significance was profound. This child was the fulfillment of God’s promise of redemption. He came not to be served, but to serve. From his birth in a lowly manger to his future sacrifice, Jesus embodied God’s love for humanity. He would become the “Lamb of God” who takes away the sin of the world, offering salvation to all who would believe.

Just as people then weren’t ready for his first coming, the sermon warned that many remain unready for his return. The message was clear – salvation is available to everyone, not through personal perfection, but through believing in Jesus Christ. The invitation stood then as it stands now: come as you are, and believe.