In the bustling and crowded town of Bethlehem, just about everyone was busy with activity. But in the midst of the crowds and the movement, several people found their way to Jesus that night. How is that possible?
God gave clues and signs so that Jesus would be found. An angel appeared to shepherds while they were in their fields. The angel announced that a Savior had been born that day. He went on to explain in Luke 2:12, “This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” This statement was followed by a great company of heavenly host appearing and praising God right in front of their eyes! And so, the shepherds went into town, asked around and searched until they found Jesus.
Clues were given to the Magi, who studied the stars and prophecies. They Bible doesn’t tell us exactly how they figured this out but they put all the information together and concluded that if they followed the brightest star, now, then they would find the Christ, the King of the Jews. They traveled a long way, maybe even for months, to find the One the prophets had written about. And they found Jesus and worshipped Him!
How are we to find Jesus?
You and I have so much more than clues and signs to help us find our way to Jesus. We have the Scriptures to explain God’s plan and fill us with understanding. We have the testimonies of people who have already found Jesus. But if you still ask for clues and signs, here are some for you to consider:
Jesus fulfilled what was written by the prophet Isaiah nearly 800 years before Jesus was born. In fact, Jesus fulfilled over 300 prophecies that were written in the Old Testament, including that He would be born of a virgin in the town of Bethlehem.
Eyewitnesses of Jesus’ life on earth recorded what they saw and heard. We have copies of these records in the Gospels in the New Testament. The events after Jesus’ resurrection have also been recorded for us. The Apostle Paul, Luke, Peter and John left behind documents and letters to churches.
And here’s a sign that you and I can see today:
Jesus stated that He would build His Church and the gates of hell would not prevail against it (Matthew 16:17-18). The body of Believers continues to grow. Even when there is persecution, it only serves to strengthen true Christians to be steadfast and even more faithful.
One of the greatest signs to me personally is the change in my heart after surrendering my life to Jesus. He has given me a new heart and a new life! (2 Corinthians 5:17)
Here’s what is coming:
Jesus said in John 14:1-3 that He will return again. The book of Revelation describes what will take place in the end times of this world. The greatest sign of all will be when Jesus returns, fulfilling prophecies that are written throughout the Word of God.
The clues, signs, prophecies, records and testimonies help us find our way to Jesus. And the hope you and I have is so beautifully stated in Jeremiah 29:13-14a which says:
“’You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you’, declares the Lord…”
I believe.
Laurie Driesen 