When was Jesus born? You know. In fact, the birth of Jesus was of such great historical significance that the whole dating system we use revolves around Jesus’ birth. That fact can be quite an embarrassment to non-Christian people today. 2020 what? 2020 years after the birth of Jesus! Isn’t it great that our Savior Jesus and his birth are the center of our dating system?
It just that our dating system might be a little off. The date of Jesus’ birth—and our modern dating system—was calculated in 525 A.D. by a Christian monk named Dionysius Exiguus. As careful as Dionysius was to pin-point the year of Jesus’ birth, it seems like he was a little off. The Bible tells us that Herod the Great was King of Israel when Jesus was born (Matthew 2:1). Most historians believe that Herod died in the year 4 B.C. So, Jesus was probably born sometime between 6 B.C. and 4 B.C.
But there’s an even better answer. When was Jesus born? Exactly when God wanted him to be! Here’s how the Apostle Paul described the timing: “But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship” (Galatians 4:4-5). When was Jesus born? Just like everything that happens in our world, Jesus was born at God’s “set time.” At exactly the time for him to redeem us and make us the children of God!
Upside-Down Savior 
I have enjoyed your meditations for some time now and hope to continue. Why do you call them “Upside down Savior” and what church are you Pastor of?
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Hi Dianne. Thanks for your comment! I’m glad you’ve enjoyed these meditations. I call my blog “Upside-Down Savior” because Jesus and his grace are so different from what we’d expect. Instead of fighting his way to the top – like we do – Jesus gave up everything to live and die for us, so that we are forgiven and saved. That’s pretty “upside-down.” That’s God’s grace to us in Jesus! I serve as a pastor at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Green Bay, WI. God bless you!
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Hello again Pastor Nass. I have started reading your devotions and sermons. Thank you for saving them for us to enjoy. There is nothing more refreshing and than the pure word of God. I am still recovering from covid19 but His word is like a very powerful medicine which my heart yearns and desires.
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Hi Jim. You’re welcome! It’s great to see your desire to find peace and comfort in God’s Word. I hope that my devotions and sermons will continue to be a source of encouragement from Jesus for you as you continue to recover. Jesus loves you so much. Merry Christmas!
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