Come Alive

Part 1: Heaven Has Come - What Happened When Jesus Came to Bethlehem

The story of Christmas is more than just the account of Jesus’ birth—it’s the story of the arrival of a King and a Kingdom unlike any other.

This week, we looked at Luke’s account of Jesus’ birth, which draws a striking contrast between two kings: Caesar, a ruler demanding loyalty and submission, and Jesus, a servant King who lays down His life to set people free. Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken. Mary, who was nine months pregnant, had to travel to Bethlehem with Joseph. When they arrived, they found no place to stay. So Mary gave birth to Jesus in a stable and laid Him in a manger. Nearby, shepherds tending their flocks were visited by an angel who proclaimed, “Behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:10-11) Suddenly, a multitude of heaven’s army appeared, praising God and declaring, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests.” (Luke 2:14)

This is the heart of Christmas: the proclamation that a new Kingdom has come and is still coming. Christmas reminds us that we are free people, invited to live in the hope and promises of God’s Kingdom. Jesus came to bring peace, joy, and fullness of life. This Christmas, we are invited to bring our fears, pain, and brokenness to the one true King and allow Him to change us and the world around us.