A unique way to look at Christmas

When we think about Christmas there are many thoughts and avenues that lead us to the story of the Christ Child.
One such story is about the "Kinsman Redeemer". Under O.T. laws the land that was divided to the tribes of Israel was subdivided to each individual family. The land was to remain in the family as a perpetual ownership. It could be rented or leased to another but the title deed stayed in the family name. The leasor could use the land at his disgression for as long as he held the lease. In the case of death of the original owner and the widow being unable to redeem the land there was a way to get the land redeemed. It was by the act of a "Kinsman Redeemer." You can read a beautiful story in the book of Ruth about it. In order to redeem the land the widow had to request that a kinsman redeem it for her. A "Kinsman Redeemer" had to fulfill at least four things. 1) He had to be the closest kinsman (relative) 2) He had to be willing to redeem the land at the request of the widow. 3) He had to be able to redeem the land (pay the required price). 4) He had to pay the price.
Jesus was sent to a generation of people who had sold out to sin and were in debt. He came to a people who were unable to redeem themselves. As a kinsman redeemer. 1) Jesus came being called the son of man and is thereby a nearest of kin for our indebted soul. 2) Jesus not only came but he is willing to take on the debt of mankind and redeem them from their sins. 3) Jesus also having come, being willing to pay the debt was also able to pay the debt. He became the complete, eternal and holy sacrifice for each and every person who will allow their debt to be paid. 4) He transacted the contract for each of us by dying on Calvary's cross. He became the final and complete payment for that which was indebted due to mankinds sinful practices.
When you think of the Babe in a manger - think of the Christ who took on flesh, willing to pay our debt, able to pay our debt and upon the cross paid our debt in full by the sheding of His own blood for each of us.
Isn't this a wonderful, revealing story of the Christ Child? Go to the Old Testament and see the story for yourselves. it is powerful and brings more light on the day we call "Christmas."

Walter L. Rose
Pastor