In this fourth week of Advent, as we consider the impact of Jesus on human history, here is a devotion that reminds us of God’s all-inclusive answer to Satan’s rebellion and the impact of sin and death on Creation:

IN WORD – What was in the mind of God when He sent His Son to live with us? Was it frustration over all of His failed attempts to get people to behave correctly? Was it because the Law did not do what it was supposed to do? Was the spoken Word so lacking that, in a last-ditch effort, God tried turning the spoken Word into the living Word? We know, of course, that the Incarnation was not a last-ditch effort. It was the plan from the beginning. All of the prior judgments—of Noah’s contemporaries, of Sodom and Gomorrah, of degenerate Canaanite tribes—were foundational to this incarnation. All of the prior promises—to Abraham and his descendants, to the newly freed Israelites at Sinai, to the prophets of restoration and hope—were wrapped up in this plan.

The righteousness of God first had to be established, then the depravity of man. Then the plan would work. The wisdom of God, the “logos” and logic of the universe, the Spirit of the Eternal could clothe Himself in humanity and have it actually mean something. What does it mean to you? When you read your Bible, does it make a difference that the Word is not just telling you what to do, but offering to re-create the fundamental nature of your spirit? When you worship God, is it better to do so with a transformed heart than with a slavish obedience to an unknown deity? Does it matter to you that instead of simply being religious as best you can, you relate to a Person—a Person who lived in the same kind of body you have and yet is still powerful and wise enough to be your God? Are you glad your faith is this . . . well, personal?

IN DEED – Some people are not. They would prefer a distant God who will leave them alone until requested to show up. The God who became flesh has so much better in store for us. Yes, sometimes it feels a little too personal—there’s sin and obedience to deal with. But ultimately, we appreciate it. We’re flesh and we need to relate to flesh. The Word knew that, so Jesus came to dwell. “Christ became what we are that He might make us what He is.” – Athanasius of Alexandria (in “Walking with God” by Chris Tiegreen)

Do you really understand the significance of Christmas? Do you desire to have your life transformed by God daily? Take time to reflect on John chapters 1 – 8 this week, a chapter a day, and consider all the questions that were raised by all the people in each chapter, then reflect on Jesus’ answer. If you truly desire to live Christmas each and every day, then invite Jesus to be Lord daily. God is indeed with us in Christ and we can enjoy His Presence daily. Have a blessed week and Merry Christmas! – from Austin, Pastor Sam