Christmas From Cover to Cover: 25-Day Advent DevotionalEsimerkki

Right in the middle of Paul’s letter to the Galatians, we find his telling of the Christmas story. Here’s how it goes.

The setting: “When the time came to completion.” The waiting was over. The anticipation for this promised One had passed and God in His infinite wisdom was right on time.

The characters: “God sent his Son, born of a woman…” Jesus came that Christmas morning as God in the flesh. This divinely strange combination made Jesus perfectly qualified for His mission on earth.

The plot: “born under the law, to redeem those under the law…” There had never been anyone like Jesus born who had the power to set us free. We needed someone who was tempted like we were under the law, but who had successfully lived a perfect and righteous life. On the cross, God punished Jesus for our sins and transgressions of the law. When we receive God’s grace through faith, we are credited with the perfect law-keeping of Jesus.

The result: “So that we might receive adoption as sons.” Now, for everyone who receives the work of Jesus by faith can be reconciled to their heavenly Father. We are no longer enemies of God. We are God’s beloved children. This is Christmas according to Paul.

Reflection Question: How would you tell the Christmas story in a few sentences? What details need to be included?