The Word Became Flesh
“Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.” Phil. 2:5-7
“The Word became flesh and dwelt among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14
Jesus, who is God, became flesh and dwelt among us. This has taken up my thoughts this Christmas season. This is a truly amazing point in human history, to have Jesus the Christ become a man and live with us. It is unfathomable to me that he was so accessible that mere mortals could speak with him face to face, touch his garment, shake his hand, kiss his cheek, sit beside him, look in his eyes, hear his voice, ask him questions.
Often times we may be tempted to graze right past the birth of Jesus and run right to the crucifixion and resurrection. But I think we err when we do this. We miss the sacrifice involved with Jesus becoming man. Not only did he become man, but was birthed like the rest of us as a helpless babe. Jesus, who was involved in creating this world (Col. 1:16), became a part of it! He the all powerful, all knowing One was willing to live as a man, as a helpless babe.
He did not choose a rich family with its priviledges. He did not choose a powerful family full of prestige and influence. No, he chose a route truly humble in every way. He didn’t even have a decent receiving blanket or a beautiful bed. No, he was wrapped in strips of cloth and laid in a manger. He came into our world,not in a palace, but in a building reserved for cattle. Here he was the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, helpless and poor.
Jesus’ humanity, being 100% God and 100% man, is an important part of his sacrifice to save mankind. We must not neglect to thank and praise him!! This Christmas I will meditate upon Jesus becoming man with great joy and greatfulness. What a great God we serve!
Karen Twombly
karen@t2chk.org
