The Incarnation

Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. -Hebrews 1:1–2

I love everything about the Christmas season. One of the things I love the most is connected to the memories I have of the season. As a child, I remember the anticipation of Christmas day. I remember going to my grandmother's house, eating dinner, and seeing family that I only saw once a year. I remember the memories of going to the church candlelight service. As parents, Andrea and I have attempted to be intentional during this time of the year. We have tried to create traditions with our kids that point to a more beautiful truth. Sure, we always do fun things as well. For example, for most of our early lives as parents, we would go and look at Christmas lights and then have dinner together. Even through these fun activities, we have tried to focus on the true meaning of the Christmas season, the gift of Jesus. 

The Incarnation of Jesus was a long-anticipated gift to the world. The impact of God coming to earth changed everything. But, as you have heard me say, I believe we overlook its powerful relevance in our personal lives. 

The Incarnation opens up the full word of God. Until we grasp that Christ is God-in-flesh, the Old Testament will remain a collection of stories about how men and women struggled with the call to faith. The incarnation helps us provide the context of the Old Testament that sets the stage for a return to perfect fellowship with God. On every page, we see a promised human deliverer who will break the strongholds of the enemy. 

The Incarnation reminds us that God is accessible and reveals our only mediator. In the Old Testament, God was accessible only through the mediation of the prophets, priests, and temple. It was but a sketch of His presence. In Christ, God became accessible to us in a form in which we could connect and relate, as a man. In fact, if you want to know the things of God, you study Christ. 

The Incarnation reveals the Father’s humility, glory, and love for His creation. Christ prostrated Himself to earth because we needed rescue; we were hopeless. God lowered Himself by taking the form of a man (Philippians 2) to gather those who by nature had rebelled. The ultimate intent of the incarnation was to bring those who were far off, close to the Father. All of this was ultimately to display the Glory of the Father. His purpose was to point to the Father by sharing the Father's love. 

And finally, the Incarnation of Christ granted us the gift of salvation, a new identity, and the church. This truth compels us to live as Jesus lived, serve as Jesus served, and love as Jesus loved. In Christ's coming to earth, we are granted a response to make much of Him to the ends of the earth. 

While I’m hopeful that this season brings you closer to family and allows you to make lifelong memories, my prayer is that you walk in the beauty of the true gift, Jesus. 

I love you and consider it an honor to serve as your pastor.

Blessings,

Bro. Kris