Today marks the beginning of December and the start of the Christmas season. Lights are turned on, decorations go up, and families begin preparing for celebrations. Yet beyond the beauty of Christmas is a deeper truth, Jesus did not appear suddenly, He came as the fulfillment of God’s ancient promises. Long before His birth, the prophets spoke of a Messiah who would come to save and restore. Christmas reminds us that God keeps His promises, and every prophecy about Jesus reveals His faithfulness to His people.
The prophets of Israel lived in times of turmoil, exile, and longing. The people waited for a Savior who would bring hope and deliverance. Isaiah and Micah prophesied specific details about the Messiah centuries before Jesus was born. When Jesus arrived in Bethlehem, the prophecies that once sounded distant became reality. Christmas is the celebration of promises fulfilled.
First, the promise of Immanuel.
Isaiah 7:14 says, “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign, the virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.”
Isaiah gave this prophecy during a time of national crisis. Judah feared destruction, yet God promised a sign of hope, a child born of a virgin who would be called Immanuel, meaning “God with us.” This prophecy found its perfect fulfillment in the birth of Jesus. God Himself came to dwell among His people.
As we enter the Christmas season, let us remember that Immanuel is still with us. In our fears, uncertainties, and daily struggles, God does not leave us alone. His presence gives comfort, strength, and assurance.
Second, the promise of a Savior born in Bethlehem.
Micah 5:2 says, “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel.”
Micah prophesied that the Messiah would come from Bethlehem, a small and humble village. While kings were expected to come from powerful cities, God chose a lowly place to reveal His glory. When Jesus was born in Bethlehem, the prophecy was fulfilled exactly as spoken. God’s plan often begins in small places, with humble people, to show that salvation is His work alone.
Do not underestimate what God can do through simple beginnings. Like Bethlehem, your life may seem small or ordinary, yet God can bring forth great things when you surrender to Him. Christmas reminds us that God works through humility and obedience.
As December begins and Christmas draws near, let us celebrate not only the birth of Christ but the fulfillment of God’s promises.
May God bless us all!
Sincerely,
Rev. Dr. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on
Director, Office of Communications
Central Philippine University