Message Minute (The Word Became Flesh—And Still Does)

So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son. John 1:14

"The Word became flesh and dwelt among us." God didn't just send a message, He became the message. He didn't live stream from heaven or post updates. He came in person, with flesh and blood. He got tired, hungry, thirsty. He touched lepers, wept real tears, walked dusty roads. Physical presence mattered to God.

Why? Because God could have reached more people faster through other methods. He could've written messages in the stars or appeared in everyone's dreams. But He chose incarnation. He chose embodied presence. The incarnation tells us: physical presence matters.

This generation is the most digitally connected in history, yet experiencing an epidemic of loneliness. Hundreds of connections, but no depth. Something's missing and it's designed to be missing. God made us for embodied community, not just digital interaction.

Christmas celebrates God showing up. What if the new year is about showing up too? Not out of obligation, but because we were made for this. God could've stayed in heaven sending messages, but He came in person. He showed up. The church, His body, is called to do the same.

Mary and Joseph couldn't control the government or fix the dysfunction around them. They could only say yes to God working through circumstances they couldn't control. That's still the invitation. Say yes to God working in the midst of it all—through real presence, embodied community, showing up.

Reflection: Where is God inviting you to "show up" in the coming year, not digitally, but with physical presence? What might it look like to say yes?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, You didn't stay distant but came near. You became flesh. Help me follow Your example by showing up - being really present and truly available - in the lives and communities where You've placed me. Give me the courage to say yes. Amen.