Inspired by 1 Timothy 3:14-16
“Without any doubt, the mystery of our religion is great: He was revealed in flesh, vindicated in spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among Gentiles, believed in throughout the world, taken up in glory.” 1 Timothy 3:16
Everything you need to know about the history of Christianity is summed up in this single statement from First Timothy. God himself was revealed in the human being known as Jesus of Nazareth. It was unheard of for the God of all creation to lower himself down to our state of existence, yet out of love he did. Jesus lived a sinless life in perfect unity with God the Father, and was proven guiltless by the Spirit. He was acknowledged and aided in his mission by heavenly beings. The God of Israel was preached and proclaimed by nations other than Israel, and people outside the covenant all over the world have come to believe in salvation by his grace. And the person of Jesus was received into the godhead in glory, forever bringing an element of humanity into divinity, and connecting human beings with their loving Creator in the most intimate of ways.
Without any doubt, the mystery of how this all happened is great. But we do not need to understand how it happened. We only need to know that it happened, and why. The Triune God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, loved us enough to lower himself for us, suffer on our behalf, and ensure our living in active relationship with him throughout eternity, blessed by his love and grace. How is a mystery, but it is what it is, and thanks be to God for that.
Let us pray. Mysterious God, your ways are hidden from us. Grant us a spirit of acceptance, that we may joyfully and gratefully live in the mystery that is you. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.
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