Abraham cried out in the midst of his hundredth year – where is the promise? God answered with a baby. Isaac, Abraham’s promised son, fathered the twelve tribes of Israel. (Genesis 17)

The Israelites cried out in the midst of their oppression under the Egyptians – Deliver us! God answered with a baby. Moses, God’s mouthpiece, led Israel from captivity to the promised land. God placed his Law in the hands of Moses. (Exodus)

The Jews cried out in the midst of their oppression under the Romans – Save us! God answered with a baby. But this time, the baby was part of himself, his own Son. Jesus.

Babies are not what we think we need in the midst of our crises.

We cry out to God, “Heal me!”

Jesus healed all those who came to him and even raised some from the dead. He heals our diseases and will raise those who believe in him from the dead. (Psalm 103)

“Deliver me!”

Jesus delivered women from prostitution and men from chains. He delivers us all from condemnation. (Romans 8)

“Comfort me!”

Jesus had compassion on all those who flocked to him. He fed them, encouraged them, admonished them. He fills us with his Spirit which comforts us with his words, his presence, his strength, his joy. (John 14)

“Lead me!”

Jesus led his disciples, teaching them how to love, how to lead, how to serve. He speaks to us through his word and by his Spirit, directing our steps. (2 Timothy 1)

“Love me!”

Jesus demonstrated his love by sacrificing his life for us. He was innocent and willingly took the punishment for sin upon himself. He was raised from the dead, glorified. His words confirmed. We need not fear the judgment or wrath of God. In Jesus Christ, God’s wrath has been appeased and we have a righteous standing before the Father. (Romans 8)

We are no longer estranged by God, but have been made his children. We have been given eternal life and have a hope no circumstance can alter. (Romans 8)

There is no greater love than this. (John 15)

God answered with a baby!

“Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel.” Luke 2: 29-32 ESV