Points from the Pastor's Pen

“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us…” John 1:14a

        In this verse, the apostle John takes us right to the very center of Christianity and Christmas. God becoming human and yet still divine at the same time. The coming of the Christ-child is often referred to as the “incarnation”. This simply means God became man. God came and lived among us.

        Max Lucado describes the incarnation with these words: “The extra ordinary amidst the ordinary. The divine  amidst the human. The supernatural amidst the natural.” When we consider the incarnation, we should do so with both awe and wonder.

        St. Francis describes the incarnation with these words:

“Light looked down and beheld Darkness.
‘Tither will I go,’ said Light.
Peace looked down and beheld War.
‘Tither will I go,’ said Peace.
Love looked down and beheld Hatred.
‘Tither will I go,’ said Love.
So came Light, and shone.
So came Peace, gave rest.
So came Love, and brought Life.
So came Peace, and .
And the Word was made Flesh, and dwelt among us.”

        When I consider the incarnation, I think of six awesome truths which are filled with great glory and wonder. The incarnation means:

God dwells with man! This brings hope, comfort, assurance, and peace.

The infinite became finite! This brings wonder.

Jesus was fully human! This means He understands our humanity.

Jesus was and is fully God! This means all of God’s limitless power and resources are at work for you and me.

Jesus is the God/man! Here lies the great mystery. This says God loves us with and everlasting love. We have great value and with God’s help we can change.

The issue of our sin has been dealt with!  We can experience both forgiveness and cleansing from sin. We no longer have to live in bondage to our sin. We can live in freedom and experience the joy and peace God gives every day.

        In this Christmas season, make sure you take time to consider the incarnation. May you say with the apostle Paul: “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift.” 1 Corinthians 9:15

Your Pastor and Friend,

Joel