Date: December 16, 2024​

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, power, and dominion now and forever; and to the Holy Ghost, who continues to dwell within us, guiding our steps. This month’s theme is “The Birth of Hope: How Jesus Changed the World.” This week’s message is titled “Fulfillment of Prophecies.”

Key prophecies, such as those found in Isaiah and Micah, articulate the characteristics and circumstances of the Messiah’s arrival. Isaiah 7:14, for instance, speaks of a virgin giving birth, “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” Meanwhile, Micah 5:2 specifies Bethlehem as the birthplace, “But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.” These prophetic details establish Jesus’ credibility as the promised Savior andprovide a deeper understanding of God’s plan for humanity.

The historical context of Jesus’ birth enhances the understanding of these prophecies. During the time of Jesus, the Jewish people were under Roman occupation and longed for a deliverer. The anticipation of a Messiah who would liberate them was palpable. This societal backdrop makes the fulfillment of the prophecies even more poignant. Jesus’ humble beginnings, born in a stable amidst lowly circumstances, defy the expectations of a mighty king. Jeremiah 23:5 declares, “Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth.” Rather than coming to overthrow empires, Jesus entered the world as a symbol of peace and hope, fulfilling the prophecies in ways that challenged conventional expectations and redefined what it meant to be a savior.

In closing, the impact of Jesus’ birth on Christianity cannot be overstated. The fulfillment of prophecies regarding His arrival has inspired countless generations to embrace the message of hope, love, and redemption. As Christians, we reflect on the significance of the Nativity; we are reminded of the unwavering faithfulness of God and the transformative power of Jesus’ life and teachings. Today, these reflections prompt believers to consider how the message of hope associated with Jesus’ birth remains relevant in a world often marked by despair and division. The call to embody the spirit of Christmas, rooted in love, compassion, and service, continues to be a vital aspect of living out the Christian faith today.

Remember, “with God, all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26b).

Bishop Dr. Calvin Worthem                                              

General Chief Overseer/Senior Bishop