So the word became human and made his home among us. John 1:14
A little girl once said, “I know God is with me, but I need someone with skin on!” In a world filled with uncertainties and fears, her sentiment resonates deeply. As we navigate cultural shifts, religious freedom concerns, church divisions, political polarization, ethical dilemmas, secularism, and the pursuit of cultural acceptance, it’s evident that we often yearn for a tangible presence of love and guidance. In these times, we find solace in the incarnation of Jesus—a powerful model for loving well in the face of adversity.
Understanding the Incarnation:
The incarnation of Jesus is a central Christian doctrine, signifying God’s extraordinary act of becoming fully human in the person of Jesus Christ. It’s God’s ultimate expression of love, entering our broken world to offer salvation and reconciliation. This pivotal event underscores God’s profound love for humanity and His desire to restore our relationship with Him.
Entering the World of Others:
Jesus, being fully God and fully human, entered the lives of people from various walks of life. He interacted with the rich young ruler, the marginalized, and everyone in between. He demonstrated love by entering their worlds, acknowledging their stories, and sharing in their experiences. As followers of Christ, we’re called to do the same. Whose world do you need to enter today, even if you don’t fully understand or agree with them?
Holding Onto Yourself:
While embracing others’ worlds, we must also hold onto ourselves. This tension is challenging but essential. It means being open to change while remaining grounded in our convictions. It requires emotional and spiritual maturity and a willingness to disappoint some along the way. However, the risk is worth it to display Christ’s love to the world.
Living in the Tension:
Jesus declared, “My kingdom is not of this world,” highlighting the tension between the present reality and the ultimate fulfillment of God’s kingdom. We live in the “already but not yet” realm. This tension is a part of the Christian journey, not a problem to solve. By seeking a kingdom perspective, we can navigate this tension and make the incarnation our model for loving well.
The Gospel Message: 1 Corinthians 13 beautifully describes love, and if we substitute “Jesus” for “love,” we gain profound insights into Christ’s character. He is patient, kind, not jealous or proud, not irritable, and keeps no record of wrongs. Jesus rejoices in truth, never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures every circumstance. This is the Jesus we follow, become, and share with the world.
In conclusion, the incarnation of Jesus reminds us that love must have a face—a face that is beautifully exemplified in Jesus Christ. As we embrace His incarnation as a model for loving well, we can navigate the complexities of our world with grace, compassion, and unwavering love.