The true meaning of Christmas centers in the virgin birth of Jesus Christ, God with us. Christ came to this earth at a time when the children of Israel walked in darkness. God's promise was that these same people would experience a great light (Isaiah 9:2). The historical context leading to the prophecy of the virgin birth is most important. The land of Judah was under the constant threat of attack from Samaria, Syria and Assyria and many thousands had already been killed. The promise from God was that a great light would be witnessed by these same people. Jesus was the answer to that prophecy Who said, I am the light of the world: He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life (John 8:12).