December 24 - Love Came Down

"But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8 NKJV)

Christmas is the story of love coming down. God could have remained in heaven and loved us from a distance, but His love moved Him to action - to send His Son, to become human, to live among us, and ultimately to die for us.

This love is not based on our worthiness. Romans tells us that Christ died for us while we were still sinners - while we were rebels against God. When you doubt whether God loves you, look at Christmas and remember that love came down.

There was a mining community called Roaring Camp - a rough place with murders and thefts, populated almost exclusively by men. When Cherokee Sal had a baby but died in childbirth, these rough men had to care for the baby. They named him Thomas Luck, thinking maybe he'd change their fortune.

One baby transformed one of the roughest communities. They cleaned up their living space, planted flowers, and changed how they talked to each other. The impact of one baby. Now, 2000 years ago, there was another Baby that really changed everything - Jesus Christ, invading planet earth. He doesn't just forgive us, but He transforms our lives here and now.

Reflection Question: How has understanding God's love for you changed the way you view yourself and others?

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for demonstrating Your love by sending Jesus. Help me never doubt Your love for me, even when I fail or struggle. Fill my heart with gratitude for Your amazing love and help me share that love with others who need to know how much You care for them. In Jesus' Name, amen.