"As we are enveloped with the music, the presents, the food, and the celebrations of Christmas, let us remember with joy that God is with us. He is our Savior, in what ever area of life we have a need." Kathy Spampinato

As a classically trained musician, I love the music of Christmas. As a listener like you, I enjoy all the seasonal favorites from Nat King Cole, Bing Crosby, Mariah Carey, and almost all the remixes from the current pop stars. However, I really do have a special place in my heart for the classical music of the season. The music still offers inspiring words and a time of reflection.

Handel's Messiah is a Christmas tradition for many people. The beautiful melodies and the soaring high notes of the sopranos fill your ears and your heart. The Hallelujah Chorus is a triumph for those who can manage it's difficulty. The Prophet Isaiah penned the phrase we are familiar with from the Messiah, although he lived 700 years before the birth of Jesus.

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9: 6 ESV

It is amazing to me that Isaiah could write with such detail and accuracy 700 years before that first Christmas. Despite the time gap, it is easy to see that Jesus, the Christ, fulfills each characteristic! The words carry a truth that is for us today. God's message is applicable regardless of the century we live in. It is timeless. These names given to the Messiah, have impact and substance for us.

Luke 2:6-12 ESV tells us the story as it unfolds. Mary and Joseph travel to Bethlehem for the census that was taking place at the time. "6 And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

8 And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. Our reaction, when impacted by the reality of the supernatural and the presence of God, is fear. God is so much more powerful and holy than we are. Yet God wants to draw us close. Listen to the message given to the shepherds.

10 And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.

God does not want us to draw back because of our awareness of our own weakness. He beckons us closer. Jesus's birth is good news for all people. This means you and I are included. Emmanuel means "God is with us". He is not far off. This is the good news of great joy.

13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, 14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” This great news of God's redeemer inspires praise and thanksgiving. Is that your reaction to the Christmas story? Is its meaning fresh in your heart today?

The names of Christ, given by Isaiah all those years ago, are for you today. He is the Wonderful Counselor. Do you need His wisdom and guidance today? Call out to the Mighty God. He will save: He will rejoice over you with love. He is your Everlasting Father. He will never leave you forsaken, nor abandon you in your hour of need. He is with you. God has provided Jesus as your Prince of Peace. His presence will bring peace to your mind regardless of the situation you are facing.

As we are enveloped with the music, the presents, the food, and the celebrations of Christmas, let us remember with joy that God is with us. He is our Savior, in what ever area of life we have a need. Let's turn our hearts to the Savior, not just the trimmings of the season!

Merry Christmas