The Incarnation

Advent is about the Incarnation. It is about the God of the universe becoming one of us, with all that entails. He became a flesh and blood baby, that cried and cooed, that nursed and had dirty diapers. He literally entered into the messiness that is human life. I still don't understand it. It's something so beyond our finite minds.

Why would God do something so radical? Why subject himself to the pain and suffering of life for over 30 years? Why would he willingly choose to have his existence completely dependent upon the merciful love of his teenage mother?

Part of the reason is so that when God whispers to each of our hearts, "I know how you feel, I've been there myself" it is literally the Gospel Truth. He knows first hand how scary, overwhelming and hurtful this world is. He knows the pain of stubbed toes, thumbs smashed by slipping hammers, of splinters, growing pains, and a voice that cracks during puberty. He knows the sorrow of grief when he lost loved ones, and the pain that comes from seeing people he loves hurting, be it sickness or sin.

It's also his way of reminding us we don't live this life alone. He says, "I've done this once before, perfectly, I'll help you through your turn".

The Incarnation is about love. It is about the God that has come to live among His people. It is what separates Christianity from every other religion. We were created in the image of God, and then our God took our image upon himself in order to restore us to that original perfection.

"May the Incarnate God dwell in your hearts both now and forever."