A merry little Christmas or an Apocalyptic Advent?

Did it seem strange to read the words “Advent” and “Apocalyptic” together in the header of this post?

Revelation 12 may be the most important Christmas text that you've never heard of. In our latest post, we explain how this chapter helps us understand the conflict that raged behind the scenes when Jesus was born in a manger, "no crib for a bed."

Unfortunately, our familiarity with the Christmas story as it's often told from Matthew and Luke can lead us to a strictly sentimental view of Jesus as an adorable infant who threatens no one. Our selective memories pluck the sugar-plum verses that makes us feel warm and fuzzy, and leave behind the ominous ones that hint there is conflict ahead. There's no doubt that we should embrace the comforting message of the dawning of messianic shalom, but we’d best not romanticize the story. Our post shows how Revelation 12 keeps our Advent celebration real. Our battle with the bloodthirsty dragon is still raging. I hope you will find this helpful.

May your reflection on the helpless baby who will one day rule all nations with a rod of iron lead to a meaningful Christmas season this year.

David ? drdavidlturner.com