The Christ of Christmas |
One of the great hymns of the faith is one we do not sing and often fail to realize that it is a song. It is an ancient hymn of scripture found in the book of Colossians and it describes the greatness of Jesus, the Christ of Christmas. Let's read and hear the four stanzas that describe our Savior. The Person of Jesus - He is God (Col. 1:15) “He is the image of the invisible God, the “firstborn” of all creation.” Jesus is none other than very God of very God and as such, He has preeminence over all. The Power of Jesus - He is Creator of All (Col:16-17) “For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities-- all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.” Jesus is both the creator and sustainer of all of creation. The Position of Jesus - He is Head of His Church (Col. 1:18) “He is also head of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything.” Popes, Patriarchs, Priests, and Pastors do not lead the Church. Jesus does! The Provision of Jesus - He Provides reconciliation for Sinners (Col.1:19-20) “For it was the Father's good pleasure for all the fullness to dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross; through Him, I say, whether things on earth or things in heaven.” (Col 1:15-20) The Plan of God was to send the Son of God to Redeem Mankind. As Saint Anselm reminds us; "Jesus did not come out of curiosity or personal need. The Father sent Him on an errand of mercy solely to accomplish our redemption." Jesus is not just a prophet telling us how to find God. He is God who came to find us. Serving Him with you until He comes for us, Fred |