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Here are some major historical dates: In 1492, Columbus came to America. In 1776, America declared independence from Britain. In 1863, African Americans gained freedom from slavery. But none of these dates compares to another great event—the one when Jesus Christ became human, somewhere about 4-6 B.C. His arrival in history has no equal. When He came, He declared that the kingdom of heaven was at hand—that through Him, God would restore His rule over heaven and earth. John the Baptist introduced Him. We read in Mark’s Gospel Ch. 1 that John the Baptist said of him, “Someone is coming soon who is greater than I am—so much greater that I’m not even worthy to stoop down like a slave and untie the straps of his sandals. I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” Jesus came, taught us amazing truths, died on a cross, and rose again–to pay our dire sin debt. While He was here, He showed us how to win the hearts of people. We win them by our love, by modeling His character, by working to achieve justice, and by sharing the Good News that God forgives all who place their trust in Christ. Sincere followers of Christ still do what He started 2000 years ago. We do it in anticipation of a future unspecified date—the second coming of Jesus Christ.
