The simple fact that God Himself would become fully human to reach us is mind-boggling! As we consider His generosity towards us, how is your own heart stirred to give?
As we enter this Christmas season, we set aside special time to remember the birth of Jesus and consider the circumstances of his arrival on earth. The first image that probably comes to mind is the familiar nativity scene: an exhausted young couple, surrounded by livestock, laying the newborn Son of God in a manger. The gospel of John, however, paints a different picture. John 1:1-18 uses more poetic language than Luke or Matthew, but it describes the same gift of God’s grace to us.
“Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” John 1:16-17
Long before Jesus was born, God was still giving gifts. The Israelites received God’s grace through the Law. This was unheard of in those ancient days; the gods weren’t very talkative! “What other nation is so great as to have their gods near them the way the Lord our God is near us whenever we pray to him? And what other nation is so great as to have such righteous decrees and laws as this body of laws I am setting before you today?” (Deuteronomy 4:7-8). The fact that God made His will known in such a way is a sign of His great love for his people.
“No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known.” John 1:18
If the Law revealed God’s will to the Israelites, how much more does the Son – the fulfillment of the Law (Matthew 5:17) – reveal His heart to us? Jesus’ life on earth allows us to know the Father more deeply by his teaching and example. This is truly an amazing gift! The light has come into the world and paved the way for us to receive God’s grace.
Throughout Advent this year, I invite you to reflect on the amazing gift we have in Jesus. The simple fact that God Himself would become fully human to reach us is mind-boggling! As we consider His generosity towards us, how is your own heart stirred to give? As we follow Jesus’ example, what are some ways you can share his love with others? Maybe it’s as simple as a phone call to a loved one, an act of service for someone in need, or getting connected with Christmas Impact here at church. Whatever the case, let this knowledge of God’s grace move your heart and hands to action to share this good news!
