Years ago I broke six bones in a motorcycle accident. Nothing like a mishap of this sort to remind you how fragile our flesh really is. It made me wonder why Jesus would come to earth in the flesh. Why would our great God stoop so low as to become a mere flesh-and-blood human being?

John purposely used the word flesh to combat a false teaching claiming that the Son of God was not truly human. The Son of God left His throne in heaven to live a perfect life among us and for us, giving us life abundantly in this world and in eternity. He would know every part of humanity—the difficult and overwhelming parts as well as the joy-filled. He came filled with grace and truth, to serve, and to reveal the glory of the Father who sent Him.

The deep questions of life—Is there a God? What is He like? What does He think of us?—are answered with clarity in the person of Jesus, the Word made flesh.

As you exchange gifts this Christmas, remember that all God’s majesty is wrapped up in that fleshly child, the baby called Jesus who made His dwelling among us.