:: In.a.Mirror.Dimly ::

Over the past two days I’ve focused on the ways that Jesus came to save us from sin and death, but that really only tells part of the story that began on Christmas. The concept of the incarnation is essential for not only understanding our salvation, but the entire scope of Jesus’ work.

Jesus didn’t just preach a bit, die, and rise from the dead.

Jesus healed illnesses, provided fish, and met a number of everyday needs. We see God implanting himself in the everyday moments of our lives, and not just the mountaintop moments of salvation.

Think about this. Jesus didn’t just multiply fish as a clever trick to impress people. There were thousands of hungry people around him. On another occasion he filled the nets of his disciples.

We have lessons here about God’s concern for our everyday needs and his involvement in our daily struggles. For those who commit themselves to him and his Kingdom, Jesus demonstrates his ability to provide.

Jesus wants your today to be better. He’s not holding back all of his good things for heaven. That doesn’t mean we’ll be wealthy and free from trouble. It does mean that he will meet us in our daily struggles and walk with us.

As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, we have an assurance that God is here among us today. He cares about your job search, your family’s conflict, the stress you feel, and the lack of certainty you have about the future.

God is here in your now.