Momentum For Monday, December 2nd 2024

“All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel”’ (Matthew 1:22-23)

When Matthew begins his narrative here, he does not start with Jesus, but with Abraham. Matthew was qualified to write about the life of Jesus because he was a tax collector. Tax collectors were literate and had to know Greek. So, it seems that Matthew used his skills for the sake of the kingdom. But keep in mind, Matthew doesn't really tell the about the birth of Christ, just where he came from, including in prophecies.

One of the most studied and debated portions of Scripture will always be verses surrounding Jesus and in this case, a prophecy regarding him. The verse referenced is actually from the prophet of Isaiah in the Old Testament. What is essential is that Isaiah spoke this almost 700 years before the birth of Jesus. From long ago, God planned the birth of Christ to be Immanuel (God with us). What was spoken came to pass. What God plans, he will fulfill. The birth, life, death, and resurrection have forever changed our stories.

As we prepare for Christmas, remember that the Christmas story isn't fictional. This story is actual history. The story of Christ is threaded across the entirety of Scripture that spans over thousands of years and still echoes for generations in our lives today.

“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”

(Isaiah 7:14)