“When the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship” (Gal. 4:5-6)
Lord Jesus, even if we’ve miss-dated your birth on our calendars, on the calendar of grace you were born in Bethlehem “when the set time had fully come.” Not as a metaphor, myth, or mere model—you arrived as God incarnate in weakness unadorned.
Other kings would’ve arrived with fireworks, big fanfare, and flash to impress; you came in humility, utter dependence, and sacrifice to save. Your glory was hidden in Mary’s womb but not diminished. You never ceased being God, but you did become fully man. Though you fill all things, you emptied yourself for us. Mary was pregnant with you for 9 months, but you were eternally “pregnant” with these callings, commitments—and much more.
- As the Last Adam, you fulfilled the law for us.
- As the Lamb of God, you bore our sin and took our judgment.
- As Grave Robber, you conquered death and rose to give us life.
- As Grace Giver, you are our righteousness, holiness, and redemption.
- As the Lord of Lords, you reign over kings, history, us, and everything.
- As our Great High Priest, you intercede, care, and defend us constantly.
- As our Loving Bridegroom, you’re coming for us with passion and delight.
As 2025 winds down, Jesus, would you “wind us up” afresh with wonder, love, and praise? Refuel our first love, first joy, and eternal delight in you. So Very Hallelujah and So Very Amen.
