Life is often marked by seasons, and just like the natural world transitions from spring to summer to fall and winter, our lives are shaped by different stages of growth, challenge, and fulfillment (Gen 8:22). In the story of Joseph, we see how God uses these different seasons to develop us.
Each season in Joseph’s life is represented by a coat, which marked a unique purpose and challenge for that time period. Here is what these different “coats” can teach us about God’s work in developing us.
The Four Coats of Joseph’s Journey
1. The Coat of Calling (Genesis 37:3)
When Joseph’s father gifts him a tunic, it marked a season of calling in Joseph’s life, where God began to reveal His plans and purpose. This was a good season—a time when Joseph received dreams from God. These dreams showed him as a leader, with his brothers and even the stars bowing before him.
Similarly, we experience a stage like this when God initially calls us. This coat represents the initial call in your life. It’s the season when God plants the seed of a promise, giving you glimpses of your potential and His plans. However, this season is not without its challenges. For Joseph, the very dreams that inspired him also caused jealousy and hatred among his brothers.
The coat of calling teaches us that the favor of God doesn’t exempt us from trials. Instead, it sets the stage for the growth and testing needed to fulfill the promise.
2. The Coat of Contradiction (Genesis 39:16)
The coat of contradiction came into play when Joseph’s brothers stripped him of his tunic. They dipped it in blood and sold him into slavery, sending him far from the dreams he once had. In Potiphar’s house, Joseph served faithfully, but while he was there, the challenges only grew. Potiphar’s wife falsely accused him of sexual assault and Joseph was thrown into prison.
For many of us, this season represents the times when life seems to contradict the promises of God. Experiencing this season is difficult and confusing. At this point in the story, Joseph’s reality looked nothing like his dreams. He was no longer wearing the coat of calling but was instead enduring betrayal, false accusations, and injustice.
Despite the difficulty of this season, wearing this coat reminds us that the promises of God often lead us through times when our path doesn’t quite make sense to us. In these moments, hold onto the call God gave you, even when circumstances oppose it.
3. The Coat of Confinement (Genesis 41:14)
Further in the story, we see that Joseph is thrown into prison, where he learns to wear the coat of confinement. This was a hellish season filled with isolation and delay. Yet even here, God was with Joseph. The Bible says, “And the Lord was with Joseph and showed him mercy, and He gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison” (Gen 39:21).
In this season, Joseph’s faith was tested deeply. Despite being in prison, he used the gifts that God had given him to serve others. Even though his own dreams seemed forgotten, Joseph chose to serve faithfully.
The coat of confinement represents the times when you feel stuck, waiting for God’s promises to unfold. In this season of preparation, God is working on your character and faith. Remain patient and continue to serve others.
4. The Coat of Confirmation (Genesis 41:42)
Lastly, we see in Joseph’s story that it wasn’t until after he had endured many trials and confusing times that his season finally shifted. The Bible says that Pharaoh called him out of prison, and Joseph’s garments were changed once again. This time, Pharaoh placed a royal garment on him, signifying his rise to leadership. Genesis 41:42 says, “Pharaoh took his signet ring off his hand and put it on Joseph’s hand; and he clothed him in garments of fine linen.”
This coat represents the fulfillment of God’s promises. It is the season of confirmation, where everything God has spoken over your life begins to come to pass. Joseph’s journey became one that fulfilled the dream he had received years prior. In the end, we see that he forgave his brothers, stating, “What you meant for evil, God meant it for good” (Genesis 50:20).
The coat of confirmation reminds us that God’s timing is perfect. The hardships and delays we face are all part of His plan to prepare us for the destiny He has for us.
Final Thoughts
Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”
Remember that every season has a purpose. Whatever season you find yourself in, trust that God is at work. He is using every coat, every trial, and every triumph to develop you into the person He has called you to be.
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*** By Vladimir Savchuk at HungryGen / Photo by Keenan Constance at Pexels
For many—especially in later years—death becomes a more pressing and personal thought. As the pace of life slows down, and we watch friends and loved ones pass on, it’s not uncommon for quiet fears to settle in: What will happen when I die? Will I suffer? Is there anything beyond this life?
For some, these questions are pushed aside with busyness or distraction. But for others—especially those who are older, unwell, or alone—the fear of death can feel overwhelming. Perhaps it’s the fear of pain, or of the unknown. For some, it’s the worry that they haven’t lived a “good enough” life. For others, it’s the painful reality of not knowing what comes next.
And yet, this article comes to you with a message of peace, hope, and truth. You don’t have to face death with fear. You don’t have to carry this burden in silence. There is One who has gone ahead of you—and who has already defeated death on your behalf.
His name is Jesus Christ.
Jesus Conquered the Grave
Death is real. But so is the resurrection.
The Bible tells us that death entered the world through sin, but that Jesus entered the world to defeat both. He lived a sinless life, died on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins, and rose again from the dead—conquering death once and for all.
“I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in Me will live, even though they die.” — John 11:25
This isn’t just a comforting idea—it’s a proven reality, witnessed by hundreds of people in Jesus’ day and preserved through centuries of transformed lives. The resurrection means that death is not the end for those who trust in Jesus. It is a doorway into eternal life with God.
For the Christian: Death Has Lost Its Sting
If you already believe in Jesus, you don’t need to fear what comes next.
“O death, where is your sting? O grave, where is your victory? … Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” — 1 Corinthians 15:55, 57
For the believer, death is not a punishment—it is a passage into everlasting peace, rest, and joy in the presence of God.
The fear of death begins to melt when you realize that your eternity is secure in the hands of a loving Savior. He promises never to leave you, even in your final moments. And when your time comes, He will walk with you through the valley of the shadow of death—and bring you safely home.
But What If You’re Not Sure Where You Stand With God?
Perhaps you’re not certain whether you’re ready. You may have grown up going to church, or maybe you’ve lived without much thought of God. Maybe you’ve made mistakes, or feel you’ve drifted too far. Or perhaps you’ve just never known for sure what to believe.
You don’t have to stay in that uncertainty. You don’t have to live with fear. There is a way to be sure, and His name is Jesus.
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” — Romans 6:23
The Call to Repent: A Turning Point
The Bible says clearly that we have all sinned. None of us can earn heaven by being “good enough.” But the good news is: God offers forgiveness—not because we deserve it, but because He loves us.
To receive this gift of eternal life, Jesus calls us to repent. That means to turn away from sin—our old life—and turn toward God.
“Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, and times of refreshing may come from the Lord.” — Acts 3:19
Repentance is a change of heart. It means admitting our need for God’s mercy, asking His forgiveness, and choosing to follow Him. It’s not just about feeling sorry—it’s about real surrender.
Forgive Others as God Has Forgiven You
Jesus also teaches us to forgive others. Many people carry the heavy weight of bitterness, pain, and broken relationships. But forgiveness brings freedom—not just for those we forgive, but for our own hearts.
“If you forgive others when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” — Matthew 6:14
When you let go of past hurts, you open your heart to healing—and to God’s peace.
Trust in Jesus and Receive the Gift of the Holy Spirit
When you turn from sin and trust in Jesus, God not only forgives you—He comes to live within you by His Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is your Comforter, Guide, and Helper. He gives you strength, assurance, and a deep inner peace, even in your final years or moments.
“Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” — Acts 2:38
This is the new life Jesus offers. A life of peace, purpose, and eternal hope.
A Simple Prayer to Begin Your New Life
If you’re ready to receive Jesus today, you can begin with a sincere prayer like this:
Lord Jesus, I know that I am a sinner and that I need Your forgiveness. I turn away from my sin and choose to follow You. I believe You died for me and rose again. Please come into my life, forgive me, and fill me with Your Holy Spirit. Help me to live for You and forgive others as You have forgiven me. I give You my heart. Thank You for the gift of eternal life. Amen.
You’re Not Alone — Help Is Available
Whether you’re young or old, healthy or ill, it’s never too late to turn to God. Today can be the beginning of your new life. You can face the future with peace, not fear. With confidence, not confusion.
If You’ve Decided to Follow Jesus—or Want to Know More
If you’ve recently made a decision to follow Jesus Christ, or you’re exploring what it means to know Him, you don’t have to walk this journey alone. There are caring people and resources available to support and encourage you.
Helpful Support for Those Seeking Hope and Peace in Christ
If you are looking for trustworthy Christian support as you face questions about life, death, grief, or growing older, these organisations in the UK and USA offer care, prayer, and gospel-centered resources—all firmly grounded in the truth of God’s Word:
United Kingdom 🇬🇧
Pilgrims’ Friend Society
Caring for older people with dignity and Christian compassion, offering homes, support, and encouragement focused on eternal hope in Jesus Christ.
There is real peace, comfort, and assurance in Jesus Christ—for this life and for eternity. Whether you’re seeking answers, prayer, or simply someone to talk to, these ministries are here to help you walk with Christ—without fear.
Charles Darwin was given life, intelligence, and opportunity by God—but instead of using his gifts for God’s glory, he used them to oppose the very One who created him. With the brain God gave him, he had the audacity to try to outwit and contradict Almighty God, leading millions into deception. His theory of evolution has caused untold damage, weakening faith, sowing doubt, and giving many an excuse to reject their Creator.
This is a pattern we see throughout history. Margaret Sanger, the founder of Planned Parenthood, promoted wicked ideologies that have led to the deaths of countless unborn children. Like Darwin, she was used by Satan because her heart was not surrendered to God. This is what happens when people reject truth—they open themselves up to be tools for darkness.
The Bible warns in Romans 1:21-22, “For although they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks to Him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Claiming to be wise, they became fools.”
Darwin, like many others, thought he was pursuing wisdom, but in reality, he was being led astray. Human wisdom that rejects God is foolishness. And the devil knows exactly how to use people who are full of pride and rebellion.
Jesus said in John 8:44, “You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him.”
Darwin may have thought he was simply following science, but in reality, he was being used to promote a lie that leads people away from God. This is exactly how Satan operates—he fills people with pride and deception so they will spread his rebellion to others.
Darwin’s Spiritual Decline: A Warning for Us All
Darwin started with some belief in God. He was raised in a Christian household and, as a young man, intended to become a clergyman in the Church of England. In fact, he studied theology at Christ’s College, Cambridge, and for a time, he accepted the argument for the design of nature as evidence of God’s existence.
However, as he developed his theory of evolution through natural selection, his religious beliefs began to change. The death of his beloved daughter Annie in 1851 also deeply affected him, contributing to his gradual loss of faith. But over time, instead of seeking God, he allowed doubt and personal pain to harden his heart. Instead of turning to God in his grief, he turned away.
Many people do the same today. They experience suffering and, rather than seeking God for answers, they blame Him and reject Him. But this is dangerous because when someone refuses to humble themselves before God, their heart grows cold, and Satan gains control over them.
The Deception of Religion Without Relationship
Many people, like Charles Darwin, grow up with the outward forms of religion but never experience the transformative power of a relationship with God. The Bible warns about this kind of empty religion in 2 Timothy 3:5, which says:
“Having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.”
This verse describes a religion without power—a “form” that looks like faith but lacks the true transformation that comes from knowing God personally. Darwin, though raised in a Christian home, may have been familiar with Christian teachings and rituals, but he did not know God in the way the Bible describes.
Many today find themselves in similar positions. They attend church, know the Bible stories, and even follow certain Christian customs—but they have never experienced the power of God in their lives. They may think that religious activity can please God, but true Christianity is not about following rituals—it’s about knowing God personally. It’s about God reaching out to us and us responding to Him.
Christianity is unique in that it’s not about our efforts to reach God through rituals or sacrifices. God came to us in the person of Jesus Christ. He lived among us, died for us, and rose again to offer us forgiveness and eternal life. This is not a religion of human effort, but of divine grace. God does not want mere religious rituals—He wants our hearts, a living relationship with us. Jesus wants to know you personally.
In John 17:3, Jesus Himself says:
“This is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.”
This knowledge is not intellectual—it’s personal, a deep connection with God.
The Deception of Satan: How He Uses “Wisdom” to Lead People Astray
Satan doesn’t just work through obvious evil—he often works through what looks like intelligence and enlightenment. The Bible tells us:
“Satan disguises himself as an angel of light.” (2 Corinthians 11:14)
This means the devil doesn’t always tempt people with open wickedness; sometimes, he deceives them by making lies look like truth. Darwin’s theory, at first glance, seems scientific, but its real goal is to remove God from the picture.
This is Satan’s oldest trick! When he tempted Eve in the Garden of Eden, how did he do it?
“Did God really say…?” (Genesis 3:1)
He planted doubt in Eve’s mind, just as he does today with evolution, humanism, and self-reliance. Satan whispers: “Did God really create everything? Did He really make you? Or did you just evolve? Are you really accountable to a Creator?”
And just like Eve, millions have fallen for this deception. But Jesus said:
“You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:32)
The truth is, God created everything, and all who reject Him will one day have to stand before Him in judgment.
How Evolution Attacks the Gospel Directly
Many think evolution is just a scientific theory, but it’s actually a direct attack on the gospel of Jesus Christ. Here’s why:
1. If evolution is true, then death existed before sin.
• The Bible teaches that death came as a result of sin (Romans 5:12).
• Evolution, however, claims that death was always part of nature.
• This means if evolution were true, there was no need for Jesus to die for sin—which completely destroys the message of the cross!
2. If humans are just evolved animals, then we have no real moral accountability.
• Without a Creator, people can justify any sin—abortion, sexual immorality, greed, pride—because there’s no “higher standard” to answer to.
• This is why society is in moral collapse—because when people reject God as Creator, they also reject His commandments.
3. It makes people put their faith in “science” instead of in God.
• Evolution is often presented as an undeniable fact, making people trust human theories over divine revelation.
• This is why many lose their faith—because they’re taught that the Bible is just a myth, while evolution is “proven.”
But God’s Word is the final truth, not human theories:
“Let God be true, and every man a liar.” (Romans 3:4)
The entire gospel message depends on the fact that God created us, we sinned, and Christ came to redeem us. Evolution tries to erase this truth, making it one of the most dangerous deceptions of our time.
Darwin’s Influence on Racism and Eugenics
Another devastating effect of Darwin’s ideas is how they contributed to racism and eugenics (the idea of “improving” humanity by eliminating “weaker” groups).
• Darwin’s book The Descent of Man suggested that some races were more evolved than others.
• His cousin, Francis Galton, took these ideas further and founded eugenics, which influenced Nazi ideology and racial supremacy movements.
• Margaret Sanger, the founder of Planned Parenthood, also supported eugenics, believing that certain people were “unfit” to reproduce.
Many don’t realize that Darwin’s ideas fueled some of the worst atrocities in history. The belief in “survival of the fittest” led to the dehumanization of entire groups, including Africans, Jews, and the disabled.
But the Bible says the opposite!
• “From one man, He made all the nations.” (Acts 17:26)
• “God created mankind in His own image.” (Genesis 1:27)
All humans, no matter their race or background, are made in God’s image and have equal worth. But when people reject this truth, they justify evil in ways they never would if they truly believed in the Creator.
The Real Issue: Sin and Rebellion
Darwin’s problem was not intellectual—it was spiritual. The Bible says in Psalm 14:1, “The fool says in his heart, ‘There is no God.’” Rejecting God is not a matter of intelligence but of the heart. People deny God not because they lack evidence but because they love sin and do not want to submit to Him.
Matthew 7:21-23:
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’”
This is the truth: God does not want religious rituals, empty words, or intellectual knowledge. He wants a relationship. It’s not enough to know about God; we must know Him personally. This relationship begins with repentance—turning away from our sin and rebellion—and putting our faith in Jesus Christ, who is the only way to salvation.
True repentance involves acknowledging our sin, realizing that we cannot save ourselves, and surrendering our lives to Jesus as Lord and Savior. Jesus, through His death on the cross, took the punishment for our sin, and through His resurrection, He conquered death, offering us new life. This is the gospel—the good news that Jesus offers forgiveness to all who trust in Him.
The Call to True Faith
If you’ve never put your faith in Jesus, now is the time to make that decision. Repent of your sins, turn to Jesus, and trust in His work on the cross to save you. Jesus is not just a historical figure or a good teacher—He is the Savior, the Son of God, and He offers eternal life to anyone who believes in Him.
Romans 10:9-10 says,
“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.”
Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). The only way to escape the penalty of sin, which is eternal separation from God, is through faith in Him. He offers forgiveness, eternal life, and a relationship with the Creator of the universe. It is not about religion; it is about knowing the living God.
Conclusion
Charles Darwin, though gifted with intellect, used his mind to oppose the very Creator who gave it to him. Like many others throughout history, his rejection of God led to devastating consequences—not just for himself, but for countless others. The lie of evolution has permeated society, encouraging people to live without acknowledging their Creator. But the gospel stands as the truth: Jesus Christ is the Creator, the Savior, and the only way to eternal life.
Don’t be deceived by empty religion or false ideologies. Repent and believe in the gospel of Jesus Christ. The world is full of lies, but Jesus is the truth. He calls all who are lost to come to Him and be saved.
“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)
The Magnificence of Christ Our Savior and Soon-Coming King
The story of Jesus Christ is the centerpiece of human history. His birth, life, death, resurrection, and promised return encapsulate the glory of God’s redemptive plan. Jesus, whose name means “The Lord saves,” is also called Emmanuel, meaning “God with us” (Matthew 1:21-23). His magnificence is proclaimed not only by heavenly hosts but also by humble shepherds, learned Magi, devout prophets, and even the unborn John the Baptist, pointing to His divine mission to save humanity from sin and reconcile us to God.
The Prophecies of the Messiah
Long before His earthly arrival, the coming of the Messiah was foretold by the prophets. These prophecies reveal the grandeur of His identity and mission:
His Virgin Birth: Isaiah prophesied that the Messiah would be born of a virgin, signifying a divine and miraculous conception: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Emmanuel” (Isaiah 7:14).
His Identity and Mission: Isaiah described the Messiah as both a mighty ruler and a source of eternal peace: “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).
His Eternal Kingship: The prophet Daniel foretold that the Messiah’s kingdom would never end: “His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed” (Daniel 7:14).
The Place of His Birth: Micah foretold that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem: “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times” (Micah 5:2).
The Announcements of His Birth
The fulfillment of these prophecies was marked by divine announcements and extraordinary events.
To Mary
The angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, a humble young woman in Nazareth, and declared: “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end” (Luke 1:30-33).
Mary, in awe, humbly accepted God’s will, saying: “I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled” (Luke 1:38).
To Joseph
Joseph, initially troubled upon learning of Mary’s pregnancy, was reassured by an angel in a dream: “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:20-21).
The Joy of Elizabeth and Unborn John
After receiving the angel Gabriel’s announcement, Mary went to visit her relative Elizabeth, who was miraculously pregnant with John the Baptist in her old age. As soon as Mary greeted Elizabeth, an extraordinary event occurred:
“When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice, she exclaimed: ‘Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy’” (Luke 1:41-44).
This moment underscores Jesus’s divine nature even as an unborn child. John, filled with the Holy Spirit even in the womb, recognized and rejoiced in the presence of the Savior.
The Birth of the Savior
The birth of Jesus was marked by simplicity and splendor. Born in Bethlehem, He was laid in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn. This humble setting did not diminish His magnificence but instead highlighted His mission to bring salvation to all people, from the lowliest to the greatest.
The Celebration of His Birth
The Shepherds – The First Witnesses
On the night of Jesus’s birth, shepherds in the fields outside Bethlehem became the first to hear the good news. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, proclaiming: “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger” (Luke 2:10-12).
Suddenly, a multitude of heavenly hosts praised God, saying: “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests” (Luke 2:14).
The shepherds, filled with wonder, hurried to Bethlehem. Finding Mary, Joseph, and the baby as the angel described, they became the first earthly witnesses to proclaim His arrival: “When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed” (Luke 2:17-18).
The Magi – Honored Guests from the East
Some time later, wise men (Magi) from the East arrived in Jerusalem, guided by a miraculous star. They asked: “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him” (Matthew 2:2).
Herod, troubled by their inquiry, sought to use the Magi to locate Jesus for sinister purposes. But the star led the Magi to Bethlehem, where they found Jesus. They worshiped Him and offered gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh—symbols of His kingship, divinity, and sacrificial death (Matthew 2:11).
Warned in a dream not to return to Herod, the Magi departed another way, protecting the child from harm.
Simeon and Anna’s Testimonies
When Mary and Joseph brought Jesus to the temple for consecration, Simeon, a devout man awaiting the Messiah, took the child in his arms and praised God: “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel” (Luke 2:29-32).
The prophetess Anna, who worshiped in the temple day and night, also recognized Jesus as the Redeemer. She gave thanks to God and spoke about Him to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem (Luke 2:36-38).
Jesus: The Savior and Soon-Coming King
The magnificence of Jesus extends far beyond His birth. He lived a sinless life, taught with divine authority, performed miracles, and ultimately gave His life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). Through His death and resurrection, He conquered sin and death, offering eternal life to all who believe in Him: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).
As we celebrate His birth, we also look forward to His glorious return, when He will reign as King of Kings and Lord of Lords: “Look, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him” (Revelation 1:7).
Conclusion
The birth of Jesus Christ is a cause for joy and celebration. His arrival fulfilled ancient prophecies, was heralded by angels, acknowledged by shepherds, worshiped by wise men, and even celebrated by John the Baptist in the womb. He is Emmanuel, God with us, who came to save His people from their sins and bring light to the world.
As we await His return, let us proclaim with the heavenly hosts: “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests” (Luke 2:14).
“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this [present] darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) places.” ~ Ephesians 6:12
In the 1800s, an old Baptist pastor was preparing his Sunday sermon on a Saturday afternoon.After several hours of study, he grew tired and went for a walk to stretch his legs. While wandering through town, he saw a young boy carrying a birdcage in one hand and a stick in the other. Inside the cage were a dozen little field birds. The boy was jabbing the birds through the bars with the stick. The birds shrieked, feathers flew, and the boy laughed.
The pastor approached the boy and asked, “Son, why are you tormenting those birds?”
The boy replied, “Sir, I love to hear them shriek. I love to see their feathers fly. It is so much fun.”
“What will you do when you are finished having your fun?” the pastor asked.
The boy smiled broadly. “Oh sir, that’s the best part. I will bring them home, take them out of the cage one by one, pluck their feathers, and feed them to my cat.”
The pastor’s heart was broken. “Son, let me have those birds,” he said.
“No, these are my birds. I caught them myself. You can get your own birds. You can catch some in the field.”
“But I want those birds.”
“Why? They don’t even sing. They aren’t canaries, you know. They are just ordinary field birds.”
“Please, son. I’ll buy them from you. How much do you want?”
The pastor took out his wallet and opened it up. The boy saw an opportunity. “How much money do you have, sir?”
The pastor counted two hundred dollars, which was a significant amount of money in those days. “What a coincidence,” the boy said. “They cost exactly two hundred dollars, cage included.”
Knowing he was being taken advantage of, the pastor handed over all his money. The next day, he recounted this story to his congregation. He said, “I took that cage out into the field, opened the door, and backed away. One by one, the birds hopped to the open door. One by one, they spread their wings and began to fly. As they flew to freedom, they sang the same song: ‘Redeemed, Redeemed, Redeemed.’”
The Message of Redemption
You might wonder, what does this story have to do with us? The tale of the birdcage mirrors our relationship with God. Just as the birds were tormented by the boy, we too can feel trapped, harassed, and tormented by the enemy—Satan, who delights in our suffering and captivity to sin, addiction, and depression. The enemy Satan uses people who are willing to do his bidding. The Lord said he was a liar and murderer from the beginning, who comes to kill, steal, and destroy everything good in people’s lives. People are being tormented by the enemy and are hurting by present methods used to oppress the people. Satan torments with feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, fear, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
The old Baptist pastor symbolizes God, who intervenes to set us free. Just as the pastor bought the birds at a great cost, God paid the ultimate price for our freedom through Jesus Christ. Jesus came to set the captives free and to break the chains that bind us, whether they are chains of sin, addiction, or despair.
When the pastor let the birds go, they flew away one by one, just like how God sets us free from being trapped by the things of this world and sin. The birds’ joyful song of “Redeemed, Redeemed, Redeemed” illustrates the happiness and freedom we feel when we accept God’s rescue—His redemption through Jesus Christ. This story beautifully shows how God’s love and grace change us, freeing us from sin’s chains so we can live freely and praise Him.
Understanding Our Condition
All of us have done wrong and fallen short of God’s standards. Sin is not just about major wrongdoings but also includes knowing what is right and failing to do it. It encompasses acts like lying, stealing, unforgiveness, hatred, jealousy, anger, sexual immorality, idolatry, addictions, pornography, drugs, and wanting to live separately from God. These wrongdoings separate us from a holy and righteous God.
God judges the heart, including our thoughts, words, deeds, and motives. While people can pretend to have a holy exterior and act pious, God sees through our facades and knows our true nature. It’s not about religion, where you have to do things to be accepted by God. It’s about a relationship with God who is near and accessible. Our good works cannot save us; they are like filthy rags in comparison to God’s purity, you cannot buy salvation. The Bible states that the wages of sin is death—eternal separation from God in hell, a fate none of us would wish upon anyone.
The Sacrifice of Jesus
Jesus Christ paid the price for our sins on the cross so we can be restored to God, our heavenly Father. There needed to be a sacrifice, and God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, Jesus, who was sinless, to take our place. It’s like a mother giving away her newborn baby or you giving away your only child to pay someone else’s debt, someone who couldn’t care less about you or love you back. God was willing to do that for you and me.
Jesus Christ was crucified, with nails driven through His hands and feet and a crown of thorns pressed onto His head. He was whipped until His skin was torn off, becoming unrecognizable. As He hung on that cross, He did it for your sins. He took our sins upon Himself, including the very sins that have destroyed our lives. He was destroyed for those sins on that cross. He bled and died for our sins, which were buried with Him in the grave. Three days later, Jesus Christ was raised from the dead. Jesus is alive!
The Call to Salvation
This message is for everyone. Regardless of your wealth, status, sexual orientation or religious background, Jesus invites you to turn from sin and accept His gift of salvation. No amount of money, social standing, or religious observance can save you. It’s not about comparing yourself to others; the only comparison that matters is with God, and we all fall short, we all have sinned. God doesn’t want our religion; He wants a relationship with us. We are created with a God-shaped vacuum that nothing else can fill. He said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.”
A Prayer of Salvation
If you feel the call in your heart, don’t wait. Embrace this good news today and pray:
“Dear God, thank you for loving me. I confess that I have sinned against you. I believe that Jesus, Your Son, died on the cross to pay for my sins. I believe that Jesus was raised from the dead. I ask that you forgive all my sins. I confess that Jesus is my Lord and Savior. Thank you for Your gift of eternal life! I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.”
Remember, it’s not the prayer that saves you; it’s the heartfelt belief and confession, turning away from sin, and choosing to trust in Jesus for a righteous life. Now is the time for salvation. Turn from darkness to light, from sin to salvation, and follow Jesus.
What Next?
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