John 1:9-14
The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.
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.
“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” Such simple words with such incredible implications. From the very beginning, he had always been there. But now he was here. The author of life born into creation.
But Israel would not recognize this royalty. They were looking for an earthly king who would occupy his throne and liberate his people. They weren’t expecting a heavenly king who would relinquish his throne to live among his people.
Their king would overthrow the Romans and lift Israel up, a picture of God’s blessing and favor. This king would overthrow tables and be himself lifted up, a picture of God’s justice and grace.
Their king would be born to lead.
But this king was born to die.
Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing;
O Come, let us adore him,
O Come, let us adore him,
O Come, let us adore him,
Christ, the Lord!
- O Come All Ye Faithful
