A SIGN FOR SINNERS
“And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.”- Luke 2:12
An old medieval legend tells the story of an infidel knight who denied and defied God. He went out into a field dressed for combat to challenge God. Throwing his glove down on the ground, as challengers did in that day, he cried out toward heaven, “God! if there be a God, I defy thee here and now to mortal combat! if thou indeed art, put forth thy might, of which thy pretended priests make such boasts”. As soon as he spoke he caught a glimpse of a piece of parchment fluttering down from the sky, falling at his feet. Picking it up he found these words inscribed on it, “God is love!” Overwhelmed by the experience he broke his sword in surrender, kneeled upon it, and consecrated his life to God, the Deity he had just defied.
Although just a legend there is a lesson in it for us. The coming of Christ was a sign. It was God’s answer to man’s doubts, God’s response to man’s defiance, God’s solution to man’s dilemma. Out of the great depths of God’s loving heart He sent His own dear Son, the proof of His love. Rather than respond to man’s doubt, disobedience, and defiance with swift and sever judgment God spoke these words through the angel, “...Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”- Luke 2:10-14
That dear friend is amazing grace! God isn’t looking for a fight with you. He is looking for faith from you. He sent His Son into the world to redeem you that you might be reconciled to Him. Then, being at peace with God you can enjoy the peace of God. As you celebrate Christmas never forget that it is the sign of God’s love for you. – HDS
David Stone
Lakeway Baptist Church
5801 FM 1960 E
Humble, TX. 77346
