For Unto You a Child Is Born

As Christmas draws near and Advent calendars are opened, a familiar line from Scripture comes back to us—often with the help of Handel’s Messiah: “For unto you a child is born.” The music almost dances with the excitement of the news, and the words feel wonderfully personal: unto you.

At this time of year, when life can feel both festive and frantic, that message lands with a certain gentleness. God doesn’t come to us with fanfare or force, but as a child—fragile, hopeful, and full of promise. It’s a reminder that God chooses the simplest, quietest ways to reach us, and that new beginnings often arrive looking small.

Handel’s music captures that tenderness and joy so well. When the voices rise to “Wonderful, Counsellor,” we’re reminded that Christ comes not only to be celebrated at Christmas but to guide and steady us through whatever the new year brings.

So as we step from December into January, may those words stay with us. A child is born—for the world, yes, but also for you. May that simple truth bring you peace this Christmas and hope for the year ahead.