Jesus was born to Mary and Joseph, who were Jewish and deeply devoted to their faith. His birth was marked by a supernatural event that has become known as the Christmas story. According to the Gospel of Luke, an angel appeared to the shepherds in the fields outside Bethlehem to announce the birth of a savior who would bring peace on earth. The wise men from the East also followed a star that led them to the manger where the baby Jesus lay.
As a child, Jesus showed an exceptional wisdom and understanding of the Scriptures. At the age of twelve, he went with his parents to Jerusalem for the Feast of the Passover. While there, he got separated from his family and was found in the temple, debating with the teachers of the law. His parents were amazed at his understanding and asked him why he had stayed behind. Jesus replied, “Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?” (Luke 2:49)
When Jesus turned thirty, he began his public ministry. He was baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River and spent forty days fasting in the wilderness, where he was tempted by the devil. After that, he started preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God and performing miracles of healing and deliverance. His message was one of love, repentance, and forgiveness, and his works demonstrated the power and authority of God.
Jesus attracted a large following of disciples and drew crowds wherever he went. He taught in synagogues, on hillsides, and in homes. He used parables and stories to illustrate his teachings, often challenging the religious leaders of his day. He said that he had come not to abolish the law or the prophets but to fulfill them. He claimed to be the Son of God, the Messiah, who had been prophesied in the Scriptures.
However, Jesus’ teachings and actions were controversial, and he faced opposition from the religious and political authorities. They accused him of blasphemy, sedition, and heresy. In the end, he was arrested, tried, and condemned to death by crucifixion. He died on a cross outside Jerusalem on what is now celebrated as Good Friday.
Yet, Jesus’ death was not the end of his story. On the third day after his burial, he rose from the dead, as he had predicted. His resurrection is the cornerstone of the Christian faith and the basis for hope and salvation for all believers. It showed that he was indeed the Son of God and had conquered sin and death.
After his resurrection, Jesus appeared to his disciples and many others, proving that he was alive. He then ascended into heaven, leaving the promise that he would return to set up his kingdom on earth. The disciples who had once been afraid and uncertain were transformed into bold witnesses for Christ, spreading the gospel to the ends of the earth.
Jesus’ life and teachings have left an indelible mark on human history and culture. His message of love, mercy, and redemption has inspired countless people throughout the ages and continues to do so today. He remains a figure of hope and comfort to millions who find in him the answer to life’s deepest questions. As he himself said, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10).