Right on Time!

It’s a story unlike any other—a story that gives us hope and fills us with faith. Of course, I’m talking about the Christmas story—the account of our Lord and Savior coming to earth as a baby.

Can you imagine the scene? The shepherds were on the hillside at night tending their flocks. Suddenly an angel appeared and spoke to them. Then a host of angels appeared, saying, “Glory to God in the highest. Peace on earth. Goodwill toward men!” Meanwhile, the magi—bearing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh—followed a bright star, unsure of their destination but searching for their King. And in a manger filled with hay, surrounded by braying donkeys and roaming sheep, lay Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world. This was the child whom Isaiah had long ago prophesied of—the mighty God, the Prince of Peace, Emmanuel (Isa. 7:14, 9:6). Many hearts had longed for this day. Now it had finally come!

Galatians 4:4–5 says, “WHEN THE RIGHT TIME CAME, God sent his Son, born of a woman, subject to the law. God sent him to buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law, so that he could adopt us as his very own children” (NLT). God sent Jesus right on time to set us free! Our Savior humbled himself as a man (Phil. 2:5–8), reaching out to us when we could not reach out to Him. He came so that we could be God’s children, no longer bound by sin or shame but free to walk boldly into the throne room of Heaven. He came so that we could talk freely with the Father and worship Him whenever we desire.

Jesus was born in a stable in Bethlehem at exactly the right time. He was born so that He could offer us a helping hand when we’re struggling, a healing touch when we’re hurting, and abundant provision in the face of lack. He came so that we might have life and have it more abundantly (John 10:10). What a joyous and festive time of year! Not because of the brightly wrapped packages or sparkling lights, but because at the right time, God sent His Son—for us!