“Mild he lay his glory by,
born that men no more may die,
born to raise the sons of earth,
born to give them second birth.”
Benjamin Franklin left the world with a quote that has endured through the centuries: “In this world, nothing is certain except death and taxes.” While taxes leave our pockets empty and bank accounts bare, it is death that tears our hearts in two. It is death that leaves no home untouched, no person unscathed.
We don’t need a reminder that death exists. No one must be taught to fear its existence. However, all people must be taught and reminded that death does not have the final word.
God created humanity to have a relationship with him. Sin separated man from God. It instituted death and permanent separation. But God demonstrated his love to the world by not leaving us in despair. He fulfilled his promise to send the rescuer, Jesus.
But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us
– Romans 5:8
Jesus came to earth, born of a woman, fully God and fully man. He laid aside his glory so that we might have life. The price for our freedom was the suffering and death of the perfect Son of God. It was a price God was willing to pay because of his great love for us.
This life is ours to embrace if we surrender ourselves and believe in Jesus. For those who have found abundant life, death no longer rules over us. From the manger comes victory over the grave. God’s love rings louder and more true than death ever could.
This gift is not meant to be kept a secret. There are many who still live under the shadow of death. We must remember to proclaim that life is freely offered for all who run to the loving arms of Jesus, especially in this advent season.
“Thanks be to God who gives us victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!”
