Is Jesus a sign of contradiction by choice or by design?

“Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted."  (Luke 2: 34 NABRE)

It beats the imagination on how such a sweet child should be a sign of contradiction and contestation.  Yet this is what Jesus became almost from the womb.  Let us consider a few examples:

#1.  Joseph, a native of Bethlehem could not secure a room in  his home town for Mary to give birth.  (Luke 2: 7)
#2.  Because of Jesus, many innocent infants of his age group were massacred by King Herod. (Matthew 2: 16)
#3. The Infant Jesus and His parents became refugees in Egypt.  (Matthew 2: 13)
#4. His relatives suspected Him of insanity.  (Mark 3: 21)
#5. The religious rulers accused him of demonic possession.  (Mark 3: 22)
#6.  Under Pontius Pilate, he was imprisoned, judged and condemned to a cruel death. (Matthew 27: 32 - 60)
#7. Over 2000 years after He rose from the dead and ascended into Heaven,  His followers are divided arguing who is the first and the best.

"The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him."  (Luke 2: 40)

God Never Fails!

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