The first chapter in the book of Hebrews tells us that God has spoken “at many times and in many ways.” The reverberations of God’s word still shake, and shape the human heart and mind. Recently, my brother was down to visit family on the Oregon coast. It so happened that an epic storm off the coast was generating some tremendous swells that were impacting the coastline. As we stood on the precipice of a large cliff overlooking the turbulent waters, the force and impact of those massive waves could be felt in the ground beneath our feet. I remember how my heart trembled as I realized in that moment that I was somehow catching an infinitesimal glimpse of the power, strength, and majesty of God whose word spoke it into being, and whose word kept those waters in place. God’s word was still reverberating, still shaking, still revealing an aspect of His nature through His creation. But the most incredible way God spoke to us, the way God literally shook things up, was through His son Jesus Christ. Hebrews 1 continues to say that, “in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son…He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power.”
God’s most incredible act, and most self-revealing demonstration was the Word becoming flesh. Jesus Christ. As we celebrate this incredible mystery, God becoming man, we have in Christ Jesus the greatest hope, and most secure assurance. No matter where you are in life, mo matter what you are experiencing presently, you can rejoice that God loved you so much that he gave his only Son for you. Why? Before Christ came, in the temple, the priests would offer sacrifices to God on behalf of the people. Inside there were no chairs or places to sit. Why? Because the priests work of atoning for the sins of the people was never complete. There was always more sin to take care of. This is why it is so significant that in Hebrews 1:3 speaking of Christ says, “After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high…” Why did He sit down? Because He finished the work. His sacrifice was perfect and He did it all for me and you.
There is a Word that makes the heart tremble, that shakes up our lives, that causes a hope that is never fading, and assurance that is as strong as the mighty right hand of God. It’s the incredible truth that God was born in Bethlehem to a virgin named Mary, to live for me, to die for me, to rise for me; to be my Prophet that speaks to me, my King that leads me, and my Priest who intercedes for me. What a Savior we have in Christ Jesus the Lord!
Merry Christmas!
