An ongoing incarnation
Advent and Anticipation
Advent marks the beginning of a season of reflection and anticipation. We reflect on the mystery of the Incarnation—God becoming human in a child born in Bethlehem. We retell the ancient story of Mary and Joseph, the shepherds, the manger, and the newborn who changed the world. We anticipate the growing light of Christ in a darkened world, symbolized by the candles we light each week. And we remember that we ourselves are incarnational witnesses of Jesus in the world: children of God, empowered by the Holy Spirit, embodying Christ’s presence. We are God’s hands, feet, eyes, and ears for our time.
Advent reminds us that Christianity is grounded in four great themes: Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love. These are the core teachings of Jesus and remain the essence of our faith. Each year, Advent invites us to journey again as pilgrims—not only to rediscover Jesus’ teachings but also to realize that the Incarnation was not a single event long ago. It happens again whenever someone allows Christ to dwell within them. It happens whenever Christians choose to live the gospel and commit themselves to the work of Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love.
The Incarnation is ongoing. It began in Jesus and continues through us. God became human in Christ to redeem the world, and God is expressed through us when we live as Jesus lived—caring for others, supporting the vulnerable, advocating for the poor, and standing with those who are overlooked. This is how the Incarnation continues to take flesh in the world today.
At Hillspring, our values remind us that we are becoming more like Jesus by connecting with people, developing meaningful relationships, and changing the world for good. I often summarize this: we “Live the Gospel.” And in living the gospel, we participate in the ongoing Incarnation. We make Christ visible.
Over time, the Christmas story has been gently reshaped in our imaginations. The gospel narratives have been blended into a single scene where Magi bring gifts to a baby in the manger, shepherds gather alongside the holy family, and angels hover in adoration. While this is generally harmless, it is worth remembering that the shepherds appear only in Luke and the Magi only in Matthew. Most nativity sets—cherished in homes and churches alike—combine these narratives into one familiar tableau.
Beyond the historical accuracy lies the deeper reality: God broke into human history and dwelt among us so that we might listen, learn, and become more like Him.
Steve Lewis