And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us.

(John 1:14, NASB)

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The message of Christmas is the message of the incarnation of Christ—fully God and fully man, two complete natures in one unique Person. C. S. Lewis called it “the Grand Miracle” of Christianity. If you think that sounds a little heavy for a holiday of ribbons and wreaths, you’re right. But the problem isn’t with the doctrine … it’s with the decorations.

How do we incarnate this heavenly truth into our earthly lives?

First, we can “put on” the humility of Christ demonstrated by the incarnation as we put others first. The eternal Son of glory gave up His heavenly rights for us. We earthly humans can surrender our temporal rights for one another (Philippians 2:3–7). Are you stubbornly holding on to your own ways? Like Christ, we must release our rights for the sake of others.

Second, because the divine Son stepped out of the comfort of heaven for us sinners, we should step out of our earthly comfort for the lost. We can’t wait for them to come to us. Like Christ, we must pursue them. Don’t be afraid to endure the darkness of the world to shine the light of Christ for others.

Third, because God the Son gave up the benefits of infinite riches for us, we should give our earthly wealth for Him. When I do a quick inventory of the “stuff” I’ve accumulated in just the past year, I’m ashamed. How about you? Are you building yourself a little kingdom here on earth or investing in the Kingdom of Heaven? Don’t forget—the God of glory began His human life lying in a feeding trough and ended it nailed to a tree. Like Christ, we must surrender our riches for His kingdom.   

“The Word became flesh” is the true heart of Christmas.

Is it yours?