The Indescribable Gift - Wrapped in Flesh

As Christmas approaches, we reflect on the greatest gift ever given: Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh (John 1:14). This Advent season, we've explored the many ways Christ is "wrapped" in Scripture: in majesty, mystery, and prophecy. Today, we unwrap the profound truth that He is also wrapped in flesh—the heart of the doctrine of the Incarnation.

Wrapped in Flesh: The Humility of Christ

When Jesus came into the world, He took on human flesh, humbling Himself to the likeness of man (Philippians 2:7-8). He wasn’t adorned in worldly majesty or beauty (Isaiah 53:2); instead, He came in "plain wrapping paper"—a humble servant, born in a manger. Yet within Him was the beauty of perfect grace and truth.
In this flesh, Jesus accomplished two extraordinary things:

He Died to Give Us Life

Through His death, Jesus destroyed the power of sin and death (Hebrews 2:14-15). Like nature’s cycle of death sustaining life, Christ's death brought eternal life to all who believe. His perfect blood, free from sin, became the ultimate ransom for us (Mark 10:45).

• The Moral Blood of Christ: Unlike the tainted blood of humanity or the temporary sacrifices of animals, Christ’s pure blood provides eternal redemption (Hebrews 9:22).

Because of this sacrifice, we are covered "head to toe" in His righteousness, able to stand forgiven and free.

He Lived to Teach Us How to Die to Ourselves

Jesus didn’t just come to die for us; He also showed us how to live. By resisting temptation through the Word and learning obedience through suffering (Hebrews 5:8), He demonstrated the path of sanctification. As believers, we’re called to follow His example:

• Resisting Temptation: Jesus wielded the Word of God as a sword, countering every attack of the enemy (Matthew 4:4).
• Learning Obedience: Just as astronauts strengthen their bodies with resistance suits in space, we grow spiritually by resisting the impulses of our flesh. Trials and suffering train us to obey God and live for His will, not our own (1 Peter 4:1-2).
  

The Greatest Gift

This Christmas, let us remember that Jesus was wrapped in flesh to unwrap for us the gift of salvation and sanctification. Through His death, we find life. Through His example, we learn to die to ourselves and live for Him. As we unwrap this truth, may our hearts overflow with gratitude for the indescribable gift of Christ.

“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” (2 Corinthians 9:15)