Ave Maria Meditations
The birth of Jesus fulfilled numerous Old Testament prophecies given centuries before. St Matthew would note that: So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet.(1:22) Our Lord would fulfill over 300 prophecies in His life on earth. Here are only a few:
Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.” (Mt 1:23).
In reference to the birth of Jesus, St. Matthew would cite a prophecy from Isaiah made more than 700 years earlier: Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel. (Is 7:14) Just as foretold, the virgin Mary would conceive and bear a Son who would be God with us.
After Christ’s birth the magi arrived in Jerusalem. Herod gathered the chief priests and scribes and asked them where the Messiah was going to be born. They responded by citing an Old Testament prophecy pinpointing Bethlehem as the birthplace of the Christ: But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, Are not the least among the rulers of Judah; For out of you shall come a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel. (cf Micah 5:2)
