the special

This passage is a powerful reminder that Israel’s sense of being “special” is not grounded in their history alone, such as the Exodus, Moses, or the Promised Land. While these are significant blessings, God points out that He has acted similarly in the lives of Israel’s enemies—bringing the Philistines from Caphtor and the Arameans from Kir. In this way, God reveals that being “special” is not about what has been done for a particular people; it’s about God’s will and sovereign choice.

This idea challenges Israel’s (and our) assumptions about what makes us special. In the second Lego Movie, the prophetic figure Vitruvius delivers a striking message to Wild Style: “The key to being special is to believe that you can be.” This contrasts with his earlier words in the first Lego Movie, when he declares that “one day, a special one, with a face of yellow… will thwart the Kragle and save the realm. And be the greatest, most interesting, most important person of all times. All this is true… because it rhymes.” The first message implies that “specialness” is tied to a singular person who will save the day, but Vitruvius later shifts the focus to belief in one’s own potential. This view, however, is limited when compared to God’s message.

Just as God revealed to Israel in Amos that their specialness isn’t because of their history or identity, we too are not special merely because of what God has done through us. God’s purpose transcends our personal achievements and identities. The true specialness comes through Jesus—the One who would bless all peoples, end the reign of sin and death, and ultimately bring salvation to the world. Jesus is the fulfillment of the prophecy Israel was waiting for. He is the source of true significance.

For us today, we are special not because of what we accomplish, but because we believe in Jesus and are filled with His Spirit. Just as Jesus came into the world through Israel, He continues to come into the world through His people today. This is the true meaning of being “special.” Miracles will happen, blessings will come, and nations will rise, but through it all, the truth remains: Jesus is the reason we have any significance.

Live out being special: This Christmas, as you reflect on the true meaning of being “special,” consider how you can help your children understand that their worth isn’t based on what they achieve, but on who they are in Christ. Share with them the message of Jesus—Emmanuel, God with us—and how He makes all believers special, not because of our works, but because of the work He did for us. Encourage your family to focus on the gift of Jesus this season by creating a tradition of giving and serving others. Perhaps you could volunteer together at a local charity or make a donation in honor of Jesus’ birth. Help your children see that being “special” means reflecting His love and grace to the world.

As we prepare for Christmas, wrapping up last-minute gifts and reflecting on the beauty of the Christmas story, remember why you are special. It’s not because of anything you’ve done, but because of who lives within you—Jesus, the hope of the world. Your children are special, you are special, and everyone at HCA prays for peace and blessings over you, especially for your kids. 

Merry Christmas!