Tonight, the world waits. We wait not just for presents, not just for family gatherings, but for a miracle that reshaped history. Christmas Eve is the doorway to an event so profound that it has inspired hope, art, and celebration for over two thousand years: the birth of Jesus Christ.
But what does this mean, especially for those of you who may not call yourselves Christians? Why does this one birth matter so much? Why do billions of people pause to reflect on this single moment?
Let’s take a step back and imagine a world without light—a world where night never ends. That’s how the ancient prophets described the human condition. The Bible says, “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone” (Isaiah 9:2). These words, written centuries before Jesus’ birth, point to a promise: that light would come into our darkness, not just the darkness outside, but the confusion, fear, and emptiness we feel inside.
The Darkness Before the Light
He comes in poverty, so that He might make us rich; He takes on the form of a servant, so that He might set us free; He descends, so that we may be lifted up.
St. Gregory of Nyssa Tweet
A Hymn of Meditation
“What shall we offer You, O Christ,
Who for our sake has appeared on earth as a man?
Every creature offers You thanks:
The angels offer a hymn;
The heavens, a star;
The Magi, gifts;
The shepherds, their wonder;
The earth, its cave;
The wilderness, a manger.”
The Mystery of God Becoming Man
The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.
John 1:14 Tweet
Why would God do this?
St. Athanasius, an early Christian theologian, explained it this way: “God became man so that man might become God.” In other words, God entered our brokenness so that we could share in His life, His joy, and His love. This isn’t just a lofty idea; it’s a promise that the gap between us and God can be bridged. The incarnation means that our lives, no matter how messy or painful, can be redeemed.
An Invitation to Wonder
Christmas is not just a story for the "religious." Christmas is a story for YOU!
Scott Ross Tweet
Looking Ahead
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Great article, Scott! It’s truly amazing how enlightened people were about his coming, the meaning behind it, and the profound impact it still has, today!
Such a thorough and eloquent reminder of the historic event that changed everything for eternity!
Thanks for sharing.