For unto us a Child is born

For Unto Us a Child is Born

Isaiah 9:6

''For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given and he shall be called Wonderful Counsellor, Prince of Peace, Mighty God. And the government shall be upon His shoulders.''

Throughout the different generations in the Bible we see the special place children had in God's generous solutions to the challenges facing the world. Christmas is a time when we reflect on the birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. It is also a time when we celebrate the fact that God chose that most vulnerable of humans, a child, to bring forth his divine purpose for the salvation of man.

In the beginning, God called Joseph, a young dreamer who refused to compromise his faith and his beliefs for the pleasures of the world. Through Joseph, God rescued the nation of Israel from famine and offered them a refuge in a foreign land with different traditions.

When sin abounded in the nation of Israel, like in our world today, God called Samuel, a young boy to judge his priesthood and the nation. To proclaim His word, as the word of the Lord was scarce in those days, and establish a generation of prophets whose words did not fall to the ground. Samuel restored the fear of the Lord back in the land.

David, a little shepherd boy, was found tending his sheep and called to be king. When he faced a mighty army with a giant before whom all quaked, David recognised that the battle was for the glory of God. He slew that giant Goliath and reminded his people that they served a God who still lived and indeed reigned.

From David’s lineage, God gave us yet another child who would come and save all of mankind. When sin had created an everlasting separation from the love of God, He gave us his son Jesus Christ that we may all be saved. 

As we celebrate Jesus’ birth, let us remember that He has given us an opportunity to participate in creating a future for all children through our service at World Vision. This Christmas, like all others, there are Children who will not celebrate with joy. There are those who do not have much to be thankful about. So as we reflect on the Saviour's birth, let us take time to share, care and bless those amongst us whom he has chosen to provide solutions to the challenges facing us today - our children.

For we know among them are Josephs, Samuels and Davids waiting to restore the true worship of God in our land.

Catherine Omenda is Finance and Support Services Director, World Vision Kenya