Read Galatians 4:4-5
God’ Son is Jesus, but we can call ourselves “children” of God according to these words from Paul. Stop for a moment to reflect on what it means to be a child of God. It’s comforting, isn’t it? It sure makes me look at the world a little differently. I’m pretty sure most of the people walking down the street don’t know Jesus like I do and know they can be children of God, too.
This is an interesting passage to use for an Advent reflection, but it speaks to Jesus’ role in the world then and now. It’s a bit of the gospel, Jesus’ birth story, and our future hope all wrapped up together. What jumped out to you in this reading?
“When the right time came,” are the words that speak to me. Of course, God knew what that right time was to send Jesus. The world had been broken for a long time. Faithful people were waiting and watching for their Messiah, following the law as best they could.
The Promised One arrived just in time to save people from being slave to the law. We are free in Jesus. Hallelujah! That doesn’t mean we should abuse that “freedom” and do as we please in ways that hurt God’s kingdom or creation. When we get our hearts right with God, it is so much easier to do the right thing and make the God-honoring choice.
Now in Advent, and really at any time of year, we are all waiting on something. Whether it’s a job promotion, final day of work before retirement, a new baby, or a break for the holidays–we’re all waiting. Let’s not forget we’re also waiting for the return of our Savior.
Like those who waited for Jesus’ first coming, we are anxiously awaiting the second. How cool is that? Imagine the delight of those devout followers waiting for the infant king. When Jesus arrived and walked among them, their joy had to be overflowing. We can just picture the large gatherings of people who came to hear Jesus preach. Jesus came to give us the freedom to follow him and understand the grace of God available for free to believers.
Jesus paid the price of his life to assure our adoption as God’s children. Let that sink in. These verses fast forward through Jesus’ life from birth to death. Just like a flash, in God’s perfect timing Jesus became flesh and grew up only to sacrifice himself for humanity. As a result of that “flash,” we are made children of God.
Don’t rush past the manger, but at the same time rejoice in how God’s story continues to be written after the cross. Ask God to show you what he wants to reveal to you in his word today.
Let’s pray. Lord I come to you today yearning to be closer to you. Help me to shut out all the ugliness of the world so I can truly focus on you and your goodness. May your peace and mercy wash over me and give me a new sense of joy. Help me stay truly expectant as I wait for your second coming. Lord, I want my heart to be ready. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
