Jesus’ Incarnation
Scripture Reading — Matthew 1:18-25
His mother Mary . . . was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit.
There are lots of misunderstandings about what may happen to us after we die. Many people think that babies who die become angels, for example, and it’s common to see artwork about souls playing harps in the clouds.
Reflecting on Jesus’ incarnation can help us think more biblically and clearly, however. The eternal Son of God took on human flesh about 2,000 years ago in the womb of Mary. While remaining fully God, he became fully human as well.
He lived a perfect life, without sin. Then, giving up his life to pay for the sin of all who would look to him for salvation, he died. His human body was laid in a tomb. And on the third day his body rose to life again and walked out of the tomb. Several weeks later his human body ascended to heaven, where he is seated at God’s right hand. And one day he will return in the flesh to welcome all of God’s children to full life with him in the new creation.
Matthew 28 tells us that some of Jesus’ followers met the risen Lord on the morning of his resurrection. Two of the women kneeled on the ground, grasped his feet, and worshiped him! One day, in our own resurrected bodies, we too will meet Jesus in the flesh to worship him.
Body and soul are created to be together, and so it will be in eternity!
Lord and God, our hearts stir within us as we long for the day when we too can meet you in the flesh and worship you! By your Spirit, move us to love and obey you today and every day! Amen.
About the author — George Koopmans
George Koopmans has served as an ecumenical chaplain at Medicine Hat College in Medicine Hat, Alberta, since November 2021. Prior to entering into chaplaincy, George served as a pastor to two congregations—one in Minnesota (Luverne), and the other in Medicine Hat. George and his wife, Emily, have four adult daughters and three grandchildren. Hiking, biking, and birdwatching are his favorite hobbies.
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