In Colossians 1:15-20, we find one of the most amazing descriptions of Jesus in the whole Bible.

The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in him all things were created: … all things have been created through him and for him… For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him.                                              

Colossians 1:15-20

During the Christmas season, we focus on the story – on what happened over 2000 years ago. We, however, should also focus on the reality of who Jesus is, and Paul says that Jesus is “the image of the invisible God.” When we ‘see’ Jesus in the Bible, we see God in human form. Paul said Jesus was “the firstborn of all creation.” Jesus, the same little boy, born in a manger, is the Prince of all created things. Paul says in verse 16, “For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities.” The baby born to Mary and Joseph that night was with God when the earth was spoken into being. Paul writes that “all things were created through him and for him.” Jesus was the author and the object of Creation. The world exists to glorify Him. In verse 17 Paul says, “And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” The same Jesus who spent His first night in a manger is the unifying force that keeps all of creation moving forward.

The frail newborn looking up at Mary and Joseph – Paul wrote that He is “the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent.” This seemingly normal looking baby whose birth angels foretold – “In Him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell.”

Most importantly, the God-child whom we celebrate on Christmas would be the lynchpin of God’s plan to rescue humanity from sin and death. Through Jesus, God would “reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.”

This is the baby we celebrate! Jesus is the culmination of God’s plan to redeem humankind from the separation sin causes. And maybe the most amazing thing about it all is that this very Jesus knows you and chooses to let you know Him.

Who is this baby? He is God! Immanuel – God with us.