In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him was not any thing made that was made. In Him was life .... And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:1-4a, 14)

I love how John begins his Gospel—first the great cosmic sweep of "in the beginning," with the One God—the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, who has always been and always will be. This is the God who made heaven and earth, and all things in them, including us. How could we possibly know this great and awesome God, or begin to understand Him?

He "became flesh, and dwelt among us." How could this be? God the Son, the very Word of God, took on human nature, and was born among us, like any human baby. Because He loved us, He came into the world to live among us, full of grace and truth. And we know Him by the intimate Name of Jesus—"God is our Savior."

Who could ever dream of a God who would give His own life for the people He made, to redeem them from evil? But Jesus did. And then He rose from the dead, never to die again—and He shares that everlasting life with everyone who trusts in Him.

During this Advent season, let's prepare to celebrate the birth of the One who loves us. Come, let us adore Him.

WE PRAY: Dear Lord, we love You. Thank You for coming to us. Amen.

Reflection Questions:

* Have you ever heard of a God like this in any other religion, who served His own people?

* What would lead Him to do that?

* What do you think He's doing for you now?

Advent Devotions were written by Dr. Kari Vo.

Today's Bible Readings: Ezekiel 40-41    2 Peter 3

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