This time of year invokes a deep joy and gratitude much greater than any other time. It’s a time when the true value and impact of Christ’s incarnation causes me to enter into a space of reverence and reflection. Today's verse is just one of many verses that brings me into that place of deep appreciation.
Knowing that Jesus, who being in very nature God, made himself nothing and in human likeness (Philippians 2:6-7), stepped out of his rightful place on the throne of heaven, next to Almighty God, and joined the broken, sinful masses on this planet, should cause us as true believers, to take pause for the extraordinary depth of God’s love and Christ’s uninterrupted obedience.
God’s love for the world (John 3:16)) was the motivation behind sending his only Son as a helpless baby into an expectant world that was hopefully awaiting a Savior who would deliver them from their hardship and oppression in a mighty way.
So, I marvel in the absolute perfection of Jesus Christ. He spared nothing of himself so that I now live as a true believer whose eternal hope is found in Christ alone. He is the reason that my daily living includes the wondrous anticipation of sharing Christ, beginning with when he arrived as a helpless babe adored by his parents, shepherds and wise men.
As followers of Jesus, we know that there would be no Christmas without Christ. He is the one we celebrate because of the saving grace that’s been bestowed upon us after having confessed our sinful depravity and desperate need for a Messiah who came, inconspicuously, as a newborn.
May this time of year take us into a sacred space where we express our genuine gratitude, joy and thanksgiving to Christ our Savior. May we then share with others our Lord who was born unto us and is our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6-7), reigning now and forevermore!
“How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!” (1 John 3:1)
Father God, what gratitude I have for the sacrifice of sending your only Son to bless the world. That I was saved and, now, wondrously anticipate your eternal kingdom. Use me, Father, to lead others to Christ during this sacred holiday. I pray all this in your awesome name, Jesus. Amen.
Throughout This Day:
Take time today to meditate on and rejoice in some of the words from the song, ‘How Deep The Father’s Love For Us’:
How deep the Father's love for us,
How vast beyond all measure
That He should give His only Son
To make a wretch His treasure.
You can also listen to it here:
Photo Credit: Sam on Unsplash