A quiet temple, thick with the scent of burning incense, stood still as Zechariah entered to perform his sacred duty. The Jewish priest had no idea that his life—and the course of history—was about to change. An angel appeared, his presence radiant, his message unexpected: Zechariah and his wife, Elizabeth, would have a son despite their old age. This son, John, would prepare the way for the coming Messiah.
In Because He Loved Us, Sharon Williams explores the profound significance of John’s birth alongside another miraculous event—the divine conception of Jesus Christ. These two births, separated by only months, were destined to fulfill ancient prophecies, bringing salvation to the world.
A Priest, an Angel, and a Promise Fulfilled
Zechariah struggled to comprehend what he had just heard. He and Elizabeth had longed for a child, but they had long since accepted that it was not to be. Yet, God’s timing is never too late. Their son John was to carry Elijah’s spirit, preparing the people for the Lord’s coming.
Meanwhile, in a small town called Nazareth, another divine encounter occurred. The angel Gabriel appeared to a young virgin named Mary, announcing that she would give birth to the Son of God. Fear, uncertainty, and the weight of an impossible reality must have flooded Mary’s mind. She risked disgrace, misunderstanding, and even death, but her faith remained steadfast. “May it be to me as you have said,” she responded.
A Journey to Bethlehem and a Heavenly Announcement
Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem, an eighty-mile trek on rough terrain, was more than a means to pay taxes—it fulfilled prophecy. Micah had foretold that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem, and God ensured that history aligned with His divine plan.
The simplicity of Jesus’ birth contrasted with the grandeur of heaven’s celebration. Shepherds, the humblest of society, became the first to witness the Savior’s arrival. Angels filled the sky, declaring:
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men.” (Luke 2:14)
Meanwhile, wise men from the East followed a brilliant star to the young child, bringing gold, frankincense, and myrrh—gifts that symbolized kingship, divinity, and sacrifice. But danger loomed. King Herod, threatened by the prophecy of a new ruler, sought to destroy the child. In another divine intervention, Joseph was warned in a dream to flee to Egypt, safeguarding the future of salvation.
A Love Beyond Understanding
In Because He Loved Us, Sharon Williams’s profound message illustrates that Jesus entered this world fully aware of His destiny. He set aside the glory of heaven, embraced human frailty, and accepted suffering—all out of love for us.
Would we be willing to lay down our lives for others? His sacrifice was not merely a historical event but an invitation extended to each of us. We encounter the ultimate expressions of love, redemption, and grace through His birth, life, death, and resurrection.
Discover the whole story and deep insights in Because He Loved Us by Sharon Williams. This remarkable book is available on Amazon and the official website—don’t miss the chance to explore the depth of God’s love and His divine plan for humanity.