Easter Transforms Christmas

John 19-21

“Then Pilate took Jesus and had him flogged. The soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on his head. They clothed him in a purple robe and went up to him again and again, saying, ‘Hail, king of the Jews!’ And they struck him in the face.”

John 19:1-3

The Christ-child “wrapped in clothes and lying in a manger” (Luke 2:12), would be tortured, mocked, and killed thirty-three years later. At his death, the announcement that a Savior had been born who was “Christ the Lord” was echoed in mockery by the Romans. “The punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.” (Isaiah 53:5)  What and who we celebrate at Christmas and remember at Easter has brought salvation to millions and transformed nations. The head of Christ was pierced and wounded for our sin. We now worship this resurrected Savior as the Head of the Church and Lord of our lives. As we picture this price of our salvation, our response must be worship and gratitude. Knowing Easter puts a new depth in our celebration of Christmas!

“Lord Jesus, thank you. For your glory…”