Read John 19:1-42
During the Advent Season we have many traditions, both at home and at church. The traditions that we do at church are designed to help us to remember Jesus’ birth and the significance of various Christmas symbols. One of the most notable symbols of Christmas is the baby in the manger. Jesus was born in a stable and laid in a manger. Whenever we see this, whether that be a picture, or a nativity, or you hear it referenced in a song let the good news of Jesus’ birth come to mind. Jesus was sent to this world for you and for me because of God’s love for us. John 3:16 says: For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
We remember the first part of this verse of the gift of Jesus coming to the world during the Advent season but in John 19 we can read how the second part of this verse is also true. John 19:30 When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
Jesus completed what he had come to accomplish. It is finished. The Greek word is tetelestai, which means that it has been finished once and for all. Jesus finished the work that the Father had for him. He had completed what he had been born to do, die for the forgiveness of our sins on the cross.
On Christmas Day we celebrate Jesus’ birth. We remember fondly the goodness of God in giving us Jesus. Jesus was not just born, he lived a sinless life and then he finished the work the Father had for him, he died on the cross to take away the sins of the world. But for this week I want to encourage you as we begin the Advent season to take some time to remember the importance of your traditions. We do these traditions at church to remember Jesus who was born for us but also who died for you and for me. Putting your faith in Jesus allows you to be saved because he was born in a stable and he died on a cross for you and for me.
Have a blessed week and join us in praying 4533 for the 419 and reading 1 Samuel 13-20, Luke 5-8 Psalm 115-118,120, and Proverbs 20 for our church Bible reading plan.
