Guy Duininck: Unlikely Characters

Surrounding the birth of Jesus, we find what many might consider to be Unlikely Characters profoundly involved.

Elizabeth was far beyond her child-bearing years, but six months before the birth of Jesus, she brought forth John the Baptist, the greatest prophet that ever lived; the forerunner of Jesus Christ, the Savior.

Mary was very young and unmarried, but she was God's choice to bring forth His Own Son into the world, the Savior, Jesus Christ. By the power of the Holy Spirit, she became pregnant and brought forth a Holy Child.

The Shepherds were the lower class workers of the day, but to them the angels appeared to make the first announcement of Jesus' birth; they were the first to hear good tidings of great joy!

Simeon was an old man who walked with God, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. By the Holy Spirit, he came to the temple when Jesus was presented there soon after His birth. He took Jesus up in his arms, prophesied of Him, and then said to God, "I am ready to depart; my eyes have seen Your Salvation."

Anna was also in the temple when Jesus was presented. She had served God for 84 years since she became a widow; she served God with fasting and prayer in the temple. Anna was at least 105 years old at the time of Jesus' birth and also spoke of Him to all who were there.

Elizabeth was too old. Mary was too young. The Shepherds were of lowly class. Simeon was an old man. Anna was over 105 years old!

But these Unlikely Characters — according to men's wisdom — were Very Significant Characters in the birth of Jesus.

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