The Irony of Christmas                           

I’ve always liked hearing oxymoron, or self-contradicting phrases.  They are often ironically humorous.  The word “oxymoron” itself comes from “oxus” which means sharp and “moros” which means dull.

Here are some of my favorites: jumbo shrimp, freezer burn, white chocolate, plastic silverware, airline food, sanitary landfill, and professional wrestling.

The beautiful Christmas story is loaded with power ironies that illustrate to us the amazing lengths that God went so that He could bring salvation to sinful mankind.

1.  The Irony of the INCARNATION

The Creator God becomes as one of the creatures - one of the created beings.  He who is All Power comes in the helpless form of a new born.

2.  The Irony of the SETTING

The arrival of the Bright and Morning Star – the Light of the World is presented in the darkness of night time.

3.  The Irony of the ANGELS’ MESSAGE

“Peace on earth, good-will toward men” will lead to much evil and heart-ache as sinful man chooses to reject the Savior.  Thousands of Jewish babies will be slaughtered by order of Herod the jealous king.  The prophetic forerunner of Jesus, John the Baptist will be beheaded.  Several times in Jesus ministry – the Jewish leaders “sought to kill” Him.  Ultimately He is put to death in the manner of a violent criminal.

4.  The Irony of the GIFTS brought by the wise men

Myrrh, a precious spice most often used in preparation for burial and associated with death is presented to a newborn baby.

5.  The Irony of the ACCOMODATION

There was no room at the inn for the King of the Earth and Heaven.  Yet, He comes to extend an open invitation to all earth dwellers into the Mansions of Heaven.

6.  The Irony of the PURPOSE – Jesus was “born - to die.”

The Baby Jesus is God in human flesh.  His birth is not the prelude to a Kingdom – but the prelude to His death and burial – then His resurrection.  Of course, He is the King – later He will exercise that authority on earth.

7.  The Irony of the NAME – Emanuel “God with us”

Light with darkness.  Holiness with sinfulness.  Life with the dead.  Righteousness with wickedness.   Perfect Deity with depraved humanity.

What an amazing way (even a little ironic) our Redeemer came to earth.  Hallelujah, what a Savior is Jesus, my Lord!