The true WONDER of Christ

Pastor Spencer R. Fusselman

As the holiday season approaches, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of decorations, shopping, and gift-giving. But what if we took a step back and focused on the true reason for the season? This year, let's set aside the commercialism and rediscover the wonder of Jesus Christ.

The prophet Isaiah, writing centuries before the birth of Christ, foretold a time when light would pierce through the darkness. In a world of gloom and spiritual emptiness, he prophesied hope: "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be upon his shoulder. And his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace" (Isaiah 9:6).

These words, penned in a time of turmoil for ancient Israel, speak profoundly to us today. They remind us that Jesus is not just a historical figure or a religious icon, but a multifaceted, awe-inspiring Savior whose coming changed the course of history.

Let's unpack the wonder of Jesus, starting with His very nature. He is both fully human – "a child is born" – and fully divine – "a son is given." This mystery of the incarnation is at the heart of Christmas. The eternal God, creator of the universe, humbled Himself to become one of us. He entered our world not as a conquering king, but as a vulnerable infant, identifying with humanity in its weakest form to bring redemption.

The wonder of Jesus extends to His role as creator. The apostle John tells us, "All things were made through him, and without him nothing was made that was made" (John 1:3). When we marvel at the beauty and complexity of creation – from the vastness of the night sky to the intricacy of a snowflake – we're catching a glimpse of the creative genius of Christ. He didn't just make a simple, functional world; He crafted an extravagantly diverse and beautiful universe that exceeds the limits of necessity.

Perhaps most wonderous of all is Jesus' love for us. It was love that motivated His coming, love that sustained Him through persecution and suffering, and love that led Him to the cross. "Greater love has no one than this," Jesus said, "than to lay down one's life for his friends" (John 15:13). This sacrificial love is the foundation of our salvation and the source of our hope.

The wonder of Jesus is also seen in His promises to us. He assures us that our names are written in the book of life, that He knows us personally, and that He is preparing a place for us in eternity. "And if I go and prepare a place for you," Jesus said, "I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also" (John 14:3). What a comfort to know that the story doesn't end with this life, but that Jesus is coming back for His followers!

As we reflect on the wonder of Jesus this Christmas season, how should we respond? Here are a few suggestions:

1. Make a personal list of why Jesus is wonderful to you. Think about specific ways He has worked in your life, answered prayers, or revealed His love to you.

2. Meditate on the wonderful works of Jesus. The Psalmist writes, "Many, O Lord my God, are Your wonderful works which You have done; and Your thoughts toward us cannot be recounted to You in order; if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered" (Psalm 40:5).

3. Look for ways to share the wonder of Jesus with others. Whether it's through acts of kindness, heartfelt conversations, or simply living out your faith, seek opportunities to let the light of Christ shine through you.

4. Take time to worship Jesus because He is wonderful. Let your heart overflow with gratitude and praise for who He is and what He's done.

5. See the wonder of Jesus in all circumstances. Even in trials and sorrows, Jesus is present and working. Trust in His goodness and sovereignty.

As we celebrate the birth of Christ, let's also remember why He came. The name "Jesus" means "He will save His people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21). The wonder of Christmas is intricately linked to the wonder of Easter – the child in the manger came to be the Savior on the cross.