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TRIUMPH: GOD STYLE Luke 2: 1-20 A Roman Triumph was a spectacle to behold! The procession formed outside the city, where the returning general and his troops disarmed themselves. As they rode through the triumphal arch, they were led by heralding trumpeters. Then wagons rolled, wheels groaning under the weight of the plunder. The chained captives followed. And then he came—the general, arrayed in a purple toga and a golden crown. The champion had arrived! So what does all this have to do with Christmas Day? Apparently, not much! Christmas is about a poor couple from Nazareth, and their new baby who was born in a lowly stable, simply because there was no room for them in the inn. They wrapped him in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger—it would have to do for a crib. So? Nothing triumphant or amazing in any of that! Or is there? In the very beginning of the story, we are told, "And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed." (vs. 1) Yes, even Nazareth! This is what caused Mary and Joseph to travel to Bethlehem. God had a plan—and it came to pass—it didn't just happen to happen. Throughout the centuries, God has used the rulers of the world for His purpose—maybe there is something triumphant here! And what about those shepherds? They were just guarding their sheep when an angel—that's right—an angel appeared and told them the Good News. And suddenly, multitudes filled the skies and trumpeted glory to God, and peace and good will to any that would want them. Then, we see it again, "And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us." (vs. 15) Yes—of course—this is good news—very good news! Yes—it is even triumphant! Yes—our God, through the birth, death, and resurrection of His only Son, Jesus Christ, has conquered sin and death. We are here for one purpose—to be captives marching in the procession of Christ's triumphs—the shedding His blood at Calvary paid the price for your sin and mine; the power of sin over our lives is not just in shackles, but in shambles—we are free from Satan's every lie. Life is not a parade, displaying and showcasing our glory—we are here to exhibit the captivity of our lives to the obedience of Christ. But will we live in that glory ? He doesn't want wagon loads of plunder—He wants your heart, all of it! When Jesus returns, it will be as the conquering King of kings and Lord of lords, arrayed in all His glory, not a bundled-up baby. What began in apparent weakness, was really the ultimate in strength, for God had a plan and He is in control. The Champion has arrived—God style! Praise God—Christmas Day isn't just about the packages you open this morning. It's about the Lord of Glory—receive His gift—the life of Jesus living within you! ~ Rev. Roy D. Warren, Jr.
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