The Paradox of Christmas

 The Paradox of Christmas

Luke 2:1–20 & Matthew 1:18–25

(Source : பாடல், பயணம், பிறப்பு - Rev. Prabhakar Rajasekar)

Christmas is full of paradoxes, things that appear contradictory, yet hold deeper truth. In the birth of Christ, heaven and earth meet, eternity enters time, and the infinite God becomes an infant. Let us reflect on six Paradoxes of Christmas that reveal its true meaning.

1. Humanity and Divinity

Jesus was born as a baby (humanity) yet worshiped as Lord (divinity). In John 1:14 we can see “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” Christmas reminds us that God is not distant; He stepped into our humanity to redeem us. 

2. Continuity and Discontinuity

Joseph = Continuity. His genealogy links Jesus to David’s line, confirming God’s faithfulness and covenant promises. Mary = Discontinuity. Her virgin birth shows salvation is not by human effort, but by divine grace. Christmas shows both God’s promise-keeping (continuity) and God’s new work of salvation beyond human effort (discontinuity).

3. Historicity and Eternity

Jesus was born at a specific time in Bethlehem (historicity). Yet He is the eternal Son, existing before all ages (eternity). In Micah 5:2 we can find “His goings forth are from of old, from everlasting.” Therefore, Christmas calls us to see history as God’s stage for eternity’s plan.

4. Universality and Particularity

The angels proclaimed: “Good news of great joy for all people” (universality). Yet the message came first to shepherds in one location, and salvation is found only in Christ (particularity). Christmas invites everyone, but requires a personal response to the particular Savior, Jesus Christ.

5. Preparedness and Unpreparedness

The world was largely unprepared. Especially, no room in the inn and no welcome for the King. Yet God had fully prepared. Prophets foretold, angels announced and wise men journeyed. Many today celebrate Christmas without preparing their hearts. Are we prepared to welcome Christ personally?

6. Greatness and Smallness

The Creator of the universe lay in a feeding trough. The One who holds all things together was held in Mary’s arms.I would like to quote Charles Spurgeon, “We tremble to approach a throne, but we cannot fear to approach a manger.” God’s greatness is revealed through humility. Christmas calls us to value small beginnings where God’s greatness shines.

The Paradox of Christmas is that the Almighty became a baby, the Eternal stepped into time, the Savior was born in simplicity.

1. Humanity and Divinity.

2. Continuity and Discontinuity.

3. Historicity and Eternity.

4. Universality and Particularity.

5. Preparedness and Unpreparedness.

6. Greatness and Smallness.

This Christmas, let us not stumble at the paradox, but marvel at the mystery that he is Immanuel (God with us).