Al Cage

You probably are familiar with the Old Testament prophecies concerning the promise of the Messiah found in the ninth chapter of the book of Isaiah. Many popular songs have incorporated these more popular verses making them easy to recall…for unto us a child is born…the government shall be upon His shoulders…Wonderful Counselor…Everlasting Father…Prince of Peace. I bet you are humming your favorite version right now…smile. As I often say in my home, “That’s good stuff!”

You may, like me, have read past the less familiar third verse without really taking the time to meditate on it. However, when you do, the verse packs a powerful punch. Christ came to earth to “multiply” the nation. What does that mean for you? It certainly makes me reflect on what my focus should be during this Christmas season. If I’m not thinking about how God may use me to join in His great plan of multiplication, maybe I’m really missing out on the true meaning of Christmas. How about You?

 

The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:29

Growing up, my Mom would never cook lamb. As a result, I just have never acquired a taste for one of the staples of the eastern world. One day I recall asking Mom about her aversion to lamb. All I am able to recall is her saying something about Jesus and something about the death of the Savior. As a child, I knew when the words “death” and “Savior” were ever put together in the same sentence, fear was the emotion I needed to display!

Well, over the years I have come to learn a bit more about Jesus and lamb. Aren’t you glad to know that Jesus is the Lamb who takes away the sins of the world? Instead of running away from the idea, I have learned to embrace it with all of my heart. He is truly the reason for the season. He is the spotless sacrifice that means more to me than anything else in the world. No wonder Mom had such high regard for Jesus as the Lamb of God. I pray that you do as well.

As mom and I matured in our faith, we realized God does not require us to abstain from eating lamb or any other food, but I will always remember those early days and her reverence of Jesus as the Lamb of God.