At this time of year (Christmas/late December), we are easily reminded of Jesus’ birth as a miracle birth to a virgin girl in Bethlehem. Nativity scenes are set up in many houses around the world. When we sing certain songs in church, I get a mental picture of Jesus as a baby in the manger or high and lifted up in heaven at the right hand of God the Father, or on the cross or teaching the crowds or in a boat on a turbulent sea.
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As a baby in the manger in Bethlehem, Luke 2:1-7
- As a young boy at home with his parents when the magi arrive bringing gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. Matt 1:1-12
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As a 12 year old boy at the temple after going up with his parents, but staying behind. When they found him days later he said, didn’t you know I would be in my father’s house? Luke 2:52 says, “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man”. Luke 2:41-52
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As a carpenter working in Joseph’s shop, starting as an apprentice and becoming a master of his craft.
- When he was baptized in the Jordan river by John the Baptist
- Being tempted by the devil in the desert, at the temple and on a very high mountain.
- When he changed water into wine at the wedding feast at Cana in Galilee
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As a prophet teaching in the countryside, telling stories and parables to educate the masses about the kingdom of God
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As a healer and miracle worker
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As God who spoke to the world into existence
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As a man on trial by Herod, and the Jewish elite of his day
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As a beaten and bloody man hanging on a cross being crucified by the Jews and Romans for our sins
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As a man being laid in a tomb borrowed from Joseph of Arimathea
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As a man resurrected; meeting people in locked rooms, on the road to Emmaus, in large groups, eating on the seashore with his disciples
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As the son of God being rising up into heaven at the ascension
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As the risen lord sitting at the right hand of God
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As the only source of grace and unmerited favour by which we can be saved and forgiven of our sins.
So, how do you see Jesus?
Meandering Moose 