“Church” for the Old Testament followers wasn’t how we view it today.  Once a week, they attended the local synagogue and heard scripture read from one of the Old Testament writings. Sometimes from the Torah (first five books) and other times from the writings of the prophets. Followers did not have their own personal scroll of the recorded writings; they depended on the rabbis for the weekly readings.

            The followers of God were bound to the law, recorded through Moses. Their relationship with God included regular confession of sins and sacrifices brought to the synagogue or temple to be killed as an atonement offering for their sin. They understood that sin separated them from unity with God and there was nothing they could do to bridge the gap except offer a sacrifice as payment.

            So, when Jesus entered the world as a sinless human being, offering himself as the forever sacrificial lamb, everything changed. His death on the cross paid the debt for our sins once and for all. He died so that nothing or no one else had to. As John 3:16 (KJV) says, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” His love for this world overrode the old process of reconciliation and created a new level of access to God.

            This Advent season, we are not just celebrating a baby who represents a good man. We are lifting high in worship the sinless Lamb of God who came to free the world from the prison of their sins. Jesus Christ, lover of our souls, and Savior of the world. John 15:13 (KJV) says, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” Jesus showed ultimate love for us by leaving heaven’s throne and choosing to be the ultimate sacrifice.

            Do you know about this love? Have you chosen to believe in Him? Don’t let this season pass by without pursuing this great love who continues to pursue you. Merry CHRISTmas everyone.