The birth of Jesus introduced light into the world, like a candle being lit in a dark room, sudden and gloriously bright. It also introduced something else into the world as well, something greater.
In the Gospel of Mark, he writes about the life of Jesus. We do not get the birth announcement; we don’t read about Mary and her step of faith, the journey to Bethlehem or the angels announcing His arrival. The book itself is short and focuses on Jesus’ miracles and teachings, as well as beginning with John the Baptist preparing the way for Jesus to come. The beginning itself goes very quickly through Jesus’ baptism, temptation and then transition into His ministry, and instead focuses on the later portions: His transfiguration, His miracles, His prophecies and ultimately His death, resurrection, and ascension.
So, what is the something greater that Jesus’ birth introduces to the world? It’s something that Mark writes about in his gospel. Hope. The focus on the gospel is that of the hope we have in Jesus’ life, death, resurrection, and ascension. This is the salvation that is for all people that was fulfilled in the crucifixion.
Even in the beginning, John speaks of Jesus as one
“…After me comes he who is mightier than I, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. I have baptized you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” Mark 1:8-7 ESV.
As we celebrate Christmas, we not only celebrate the light that was brought, but hope of salvation for all.