Two thousand years ago, love came down to earth. Love came in the form of a baby, laid in a manger in the tiny town of Bethlehem. His name was Jesus, and the world was never the same. The God of creation sent His only Son to put on flesh and become like us—to experience the things we feel and know, but to lead a sinless life. He loved all of the people He encountered—regardless of their past or present. Jesus embodied love in a way that only He could do.
The second week of Advent marks love. We could all use a little more love these days. Not just in the frivolous ways that we throw the word love around, but in a self-sacrificing, patient, compassionate, merciful kind of love. The kind of love that Jesus modeled for us.
“For God loved the world in this way: He gave His One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world that He might condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him.” John 3:16-17
This love story continues today in our own lives. For those of us who have a relationship with Jesus, we experience it daily.
It is because of love that Jesus came.
It is because of love that Jesus died.
It is because of love that we have the hope of salvation through Jesus.
Jesus is the full expression of love.
We wait on the Advent, the arrival, of Jesus. We’re waiting on Him to come back for His people. Until He does, we await His return because of the love He extended towards weary, sinful people just like you and me.
One of my favorite hymns, especially at Christmas is “Come Thou Long Expected Jesus” because there’s anticipation that it creates as we await Advent.
Come, Thou long expected Jesus
Born to set Thy people free;
From our fears and sins release us,
Let us find our rest in Thee.
Israel’s strength and consolation,
Hope of all the earth Thou art;
Dear desire of every nation,
Joy of every longing heart.
Born Thy people to deliver,
Born a child and yet a King,
Born to reign in us forever,
Now Thy gracious kingdom bring.
By Thine own eternal Spirit
Rule in all our hearts alone;
By Thine all sufficient merit,
Raise us to Thy glorious throne.
When Mary Margaret isn’t coordinating leadership events for women or hosting the {MARKED} podcast, you can find her watching Florida Gator football, cooking with friends, or reading a good book. She loves teaching God’s Word, Mexican food, a good pair of jeans, and calling Nashville home. Follow her on Twitter: @marymargaretc.
