by Jeff McKinney
Luke 2:10-14; John 3:16; Philippians 2:5-8
As we engage in this sacred season of Lent, we are reminded of the profound connection between the birth of Jesus and the journey to the cross. The miraculous event of Jesus’ birth, celebrated at Christmas, lays the foundation for the meaning of his suffering, death, and resurrection. This devotional invites us to reflect on how the incarnation of Christ informs our Lenten journey toward Easter.
The Gift of Incarnation
In Luke 2:10-14, we read the angel’s announcement to the shepherds: “But the angel said to them, ‘Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.’”
This moment marks the arrival of our Savior, who comes to dwell among us in humility. The birth of Jesus embodies God’s incredible love and desire for a relationship with humanity. As we embark on our Lenten observance, let us remember that this Savior, born in a lowly manger, is the same one who would ultimately bear the weight of our sins on the cross.
During Lent, we reflect on our need for salvation and the depth of God’s love for us. Just as the shepherds rejoiced at the birth of Christ, we too are called to rejoice in the assurance that God has intervened in our lives, offering us hope and redemption.
The Purpose of His Coming
John 3:16 reminds us of the purpose of Jesus' coming: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”
The incarnation is intimately tied to the mission of Christ. He came to offer us eternal life, and this promise is fulfilled through his sacrificial death and glorious resurrection. In this Lenten season, we are invited to reflect on the ultimate cost of that gift—the sacrifice of Jesus on our behalf.
As we engage in practices of prayer, fasting, and self-examination, we are reminded of the grace that covers our shortcomings. The journey to the cross is a journey of repentance, urging us to turn back to God and embrace the new life he offers through Jesus.
Embracing the Journey of Humility
Philippians 2:5-8 encourages us to adopt the mindset of Christ: “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.”
The humility of Christ’s birth serves as a model for our own lives. As we navigate the challenges of our spiritual journey during Lent, we are called to embrace humility. This means letting go of our pride, acknowledging our need for God, and serving others in love, just as Jesus did.
Lent provides us with an opportunity to reflect on our lives and consider how we can embody the humility and servanthood of Christ. What habits or attitudes might we need to surrender? How can we better serve those around us, following Christ’s example?
As we journey through Lent, let us keep the birth of Jesus at the forefront of our hearts and minds. The significance of his incarnation is not only a celebration of God’s love but also a call to transformation. We are reminded that the same Savior who was born in a manger came to die for our sins and grant us eternal life.
May this season be one of deep reflection, repentance, and renewal as we anticipate the joy of Easter. Let us rejoice in the gift of Jesus, who embodies hope, love, and the promise of resurrection.
Prayer
Gracious God, as we enter this Lenten season, help us to remember the significance of Jesus’ birth and the love that prompted it. May we reflect on the depth of our need for salvation and the grace you offer us. Teach us to embrace humility and to serve others as Christ served. Prepare our hearts to celebrate the resurrection with joy and gratitude. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
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