The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.
We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John testified concerning him. He cried out, saying, “This was the one I spoke about when I said, ‘He who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’”) Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. John 1:14–16
Lord Jesus, though there’s no Mary or Joseph, stable or manger, shepherds or angels in John’s account of your birth, you are definitely there. You are the only “star” on the horizon in this nativity scene, and your glory fills the sky.
Thank you for becoming flesh and “tabernacling” among us. Though equal to, yet distinct from the Father, you didn’t consider your glory something to be tightly grasped, or selfishly exploited. Rather, you emptied yourself by becoming a man. But not just any ordinary man, but a servant-man, the Servant of the Lord, the second Adam—our Substitute and Savior.
In your 33 years of incarnate life, you accomplished everything necessary for the redemption of your Bride, and the restoration of the cosmos. You are mighty to save and quick to redeem; humble in your birth and exalted in your reign; dispenser of our joys and sovereign over our sufferings.
We should sing, “Joy to the World” year-round, for you are presently ruling the world with your grace and truth—making all things new and beautiful. As the gospel runs from heart to heart and nation to nation, you are making “your blessings flow, far as the curse is found.”
From the riches of the Gospel we keep receiving one blessing after another—grace upon grace. We’re robed in your righteousness and under God’s favor. We enjoy your steadfast intercession and never-ending advocacy. As surely as you came the first time on time, so shall it be with your return. Joy to the world, indeed. So very Amen we pray, in your great and grace-full name.