December 29, 2019 · Matthew 1:23

Advent: God With Us

“That baby boy played with toys. He made normal noise, though had abnormal poise. The incarnation, God taking on human flesh. This was the beginning of the return. This was God with us again, really with us. He was with us in flesh for 30 odd years. He walked and talked with us, ate fish and other dishes. He taught us the truth of God being love and grace. He was God's very face. Those who knew him, drew near him. He was dear to them, but they sneered at him. They speared him. He died on a cross. He spoke forgiveness over his killers, over all humanity, over you and me. The baby Jesus came to grow up and die for us. To take the shame and guilt we felt, he made a way for us to be with God again. He went into the heavens to get things ready for humanity, but he will be back and he will be with us forever. God with us. Thankfully, though, we don't have to wait. Anyone who believes that God came as a little baby and grew into an innocent man killed by jealous humans for our sins, we receive him even now in our hearts. The Spirit of God is available to all. God is with us. But once the Holy Spirit might come on a special person every now and again, the Holy Spirit comes within every woman and man who trusts in Jesus. We are not alone in the universe. We are at home with God, and Jesus will return just as he left us and someday we will live with him happily ever after. Christmas means God is with us.”