The Incarnation

Brief Description

Advent is a season of waiting and preparation. As we await the celebration of Christ’s first coming, we also remember that we live in a time of waiting and preparing ourselves for Christ’s second coming. He came first as a baby in a manger, the humble servant of all. One day, Jesus will return as King of kings and Lord of lords, riding in victory to claim his own. Will he find us ready?

In this hectic season, we often find ourselves occupied with preparing parties and presents, stockings and songs. But it is also good for us to pause and remember why and whom we celebrate. We celebrate Jesus, the author, perfecter, and central figure of our faith (Heb 1:1-12). We anticipate his coming and know that what may seem like a delay is an expression of God’s grace (2 Pet 3:8-15). We remember that Jesus is Lord and that we are his servants (Jn 1:6-8, 19-28). We marvel at the courage of a young woman willing to say “yes” to God despite the risks, and we wonder if we would have had her strength (Lk 1:26-38). Finally, we bow our knees to worship an infant king, the baby laid in a manger who came to bring peace and great joy to all people (Lk 2:1-20).

Over 2,000 years ago, God changed history by sending God’s own Son. Angels declared the good news to shepherds in a field, while those in power remained blissfully unaware. At his first coming, Jesus slipped quietly into the world. At his second coming, the whole world will see and finally recognize him for who he is: the ultimate revelation of God’s self. As we prepare for the celebrations of the season, let us also remember that we live now in a season of preparation. When Christ returns, will those around you be ready? Will you?