Why did Jesus come to us as a baby? 

Newborn babies scare me a little because they are so vulnerable.  They feel like they are about to fall apart.  They are also a little unpredictable and irregular.  When they are wet, poopy, hungry, tired, thirsty, or sick, they never tell you about it, they just cry, and unless you live with them, you will never know what they are crying for.  Also, they don’t sleep when normal people do – at night.  There are many mysteries that surround these little beings with their sweet little mushed up faces and their wrinkly little hands, but the greatest mystery is why we cannot resist them?  Is there really anything more defenseless, fragile, and irresistable than a new baby?

Jesus, God’s son, comes to each of us each year as a small, vulnerable baby.  Will he find in you a welcoming embrace, a tender kiss, a sweet smile, a silly face and a goo-goo, ga-ga?  Will your arms reach out to hold your most humble and holy God?  The Untouchable Fire of the Old Testament, God Almighty, reaches out little fingers to wrap around yours.  The Creator of all seeks the care and shelter of His creatures.  What kind of God is this that surrenders Himself so completely to His people?  Will there be a place in your New Year for our tender, loving, amazing Jesus? 

Our Lord continues to give himself to us in his ever present grace, his fellowship in prayer and Scripture, and His True Presence in the Eucharist.  God’s love is not a philosophy, it is a living, crying, confusing, perplexing, baby boy.  Salvation is not a doctrine, it is an adorable infant waiting to be embraced and accepted.  This Jesus comes to us to make a home with us, to live with us, to lead us to the fullness of life.   

Why did Jesus come to us as a baby - that we might embrace Him and welcome Him into our hearts.

God’s choicest blessings on your New Year.  We love you and pray for you everyday.