What Child Is This? A Theological Reflection on the Birth of Christ

Introduction

The Christmas season recalls one of the most beautiful and profound songs ever written: “What Child Is This?” This hymn invites us to ponder the mystery and majesty of Jesus Christ’s birth, echoing the questions and meditations that must have filled Mary’s heart as she held her newborn son. The lyrics, rich in biblical imagery, set the stage for a deeper theological reflection on the significance of Christ’s incarnation:

What child is this, who laid to rest\ On Mary’s lap, is sleeping\ Whom angels greet with anthems sweet\ While shepherds watch are keeping

Chorus:\ This, this is Christ, the King\ Whom shepherds guard and angels sing\ Haste, haste to bring him laud\ The Babe, the Son of Mary

Mary’s Continuous Meditation

Scripture tells us in Luke 2:19 that Mary “pondered” these things in her heart. The original language indicates that this meditation was ongoing—Mary’s contemplation of Jesus’ identity began on the night of His birth and continued throughout His life. She reflected on the reality that the child she bore was the eternal Son of God, as John 1:14 declares: “He became flesh and dwelt among us.” Every moment, every event in Jesus’ life revealed more of His divine nature, and Mary’s faith deepened as she saw these revelations.

The Prophecy of Isaiah: Two Natures, One Savior

Isaiah 9:6 proclaims, “… unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given…” This prophecy, written nearly 700 years before Christ’s birth, is presented in the present tense—a testament to God’s eternal perspective. For humanity, the birth was a future event; for God, it was already accomplished. The two phrases in Isaiah’s prophecy reveal the dual nature of Christ: His humanity (“a child is born”) and His divinity (“a son is given”). As John 3:16 affirms, the eternal Son of God was given to become a perfect man, live a sinless life, and die as a substitutionary sacrifice for all who receive Him by faith.

The Greatness of Christ’s Kingdom

Isaiah’s prophecy goes further, revealing three essential truths about Jesus Christ:

1. Christ Will Reign with Justice and Peace

“… the government shall be upon his shoulder…” The foundation of Christ’s kingdom is justice—unlike human governments, which are marred by sin and corruption. Isaiah describes a kingdom established “with judgment and with justice” (Isaiah 9:7). In Christ’s future kingdom, righteousness will prevail, and every decision will be perfectly fair. The result will be everlasting peace, as declared by the angels on the night of Christ’s birth: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men” (Luke 2:14). True peace is found only in Christ, who reconciles sinners to God and enables believers to live in harmony through the Holy Spirit.

2. The Unique Name of Jesus

Isaiah gives five titles to the coming Messiah: Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Each title reveals an aspect of Christ’s essence:

• Wonderful: Miraculous and beyond comprehension, Jesus is both fully God and fully man. His incarnation and redemptive work are the ultimate manifestations of God’s miraculous love.
• Counselor: The embodiment of perfect wisdom, Christ’s counsel is flawless for every person and situation.
• Mighty God: Infinite and unconquerable, Jesus is the Creator and Sustainer of all things.
• Everlasting Father: The source of eternal life, Christ gives new life to all who believe in Him.
• Prince of Peace: The administrator of true peace, reconciling God and humanity through salvation.

3. The Irresistible Kingdom

“… the zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.” God’s intense love guarantees the fulfillment of His eternal plan. Despite opposition from Satan and the world, God’s zeal for His glory, His Son, and His people ensures victory. The establishment of Christ’s kingdom is secured by the authority and power of the Lord of hosts, and all enemies will ultimately be defeated.

Conclusion: Personal Reflection

Mary’s meditation on the Person of Jesus Christ led her to deep trust and hope. As believers, we are called to reflect on the same truth:

• Do I truly recognize who was born that night in Bethlehem? He is the Savior and the Lord—does He reign in my life?
• Does my meditation on Jesus Christ shape my attitudes and actions, making Him the foundation of my hope?
• Who directs and dominates my life?

If we, like Mary, meditate on the Person and work of Jesus Christ, our lives will be transformed, manifesting the new life we have in Him.

May this Christmas season be a time of deep reflection and renewed faith in the Child who is Christ the King.