Love Incarnate

“The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” — John 1:14

Reflection 

The incarnation—the eternal Word becoming flesh—is the ultimate display of God’s love. John 1:14 draws us into the heart of Advent: God stepping into our world, clothed in humanity, to live among us. This act of immeasurable love not only saves but also reveals His desire to be with us.

As we light the Candle of Love, we remember that Christ’s birth is more than a historical event; it is the embodiment of grace and truth. William Barclay explains that grace is God’s love reaching out to the undeserving, while truth reveals His very nature. These attributes shine in the newborn Jesus, offering us both redemption and revelation.

The incarnation also brings Joy, for Emmanuel—God with us—has come. Alexander Maclaren describes it as “The eternal God stooped to wear the flesh He had made and, in wearing it, to redeem it.” In His presence, we find Peace, as John Stott reminds us that God enters into our pain and struggles. And through Christ’s birth, our Hope is fulfilled—Martin Lloyd-Jones writes, “God has come in the flesh to bring us to Himself.”

In Christ, God’s love becomes tangible: personal, sacrificial, and redemptive. How will you embrace and extend His love, joy, peace, and hope this Advent?

Closing Prayer

Lord Jesus, You are Love Incarnate, full of grace and truth. As we light the candles of Advent, may Your love, joy, peace, and hope fill our hearts and overflow into the world around us. Come, dwell in our hearts this season and forevermore. Amen.

Deus Caritas Est