Psalm 89:1-4
I will sing of your steadfast love, O Lord, forever; with my mouth I will proclaim your faithfulness to all generations. I declare that your steadfast love is established forever; your faithfulness is as firm as the heavens. You said, “I have made a covenant with my chosen one, I have sworn to my servant David: ‘I will establish your descendants forever, and build your throne for all generations’.”
Psalm 89 is a community lament, provoked by some major defeat, composed for an occasion when the continuity of the Davidic kingship was in doubt. But the opening verses read as a hymn of praise reminding us of the covenant that God made with David. “I have made a covenant with my chosen one, I have sworn to my servant David: I will establish your descendants forever, and build your throne for all generations.” Psalm 89:3-4 This summarizes what the prophet Nathan spoke to David in 2 Samuel 7:12-16. Jesus fulfills that prophecy as the Messiah who will remain on the throne forever. Remember that Mary and Joseph went to Bethlehem to be registered for the census because Joseph was from the house and family of David. (Luke 2:1-4)
Matt Ortman has set Christina Rosetti’s poem written in 1885 to music with a beautiful rendition of “Love Came Down at Christmas.” I’ve heard the following story retold numerous times. A seminary professor once drew a downward arrow on the chalkboard and said, “If you understand this, you’ll know everything you need to know about the Christian faith.” He asked the class to ponder that and walked out the door. They were very perplexed and came back to the next class eager for the explanation. He explained, God came down to us at Christmas in the person of Jesus Christ. We can never turn the arrow around and make our way up to God. God came down. God always comes down.
Today we celebrate the unique aspect of Christianity which is distinct from all other religions in that God came to us and lived among us in the person of Jesus Christ. He is the fulfillment of prophecy and a new covenant which is everlasting. He opened the door to everlasting life, and he calls us to share a love like the world had never known before.
Our season of preparation and anticipation is over. Jesus Christ is born bringing love and joy and new life to the world. I pray that each of us can be startled once again by this incredible gift given by a loving and gracious God!
Merry Christmas Everyone!!
Contributed by Rev. Stewart Smith