Advent is a delicious thirst. We remember the Incarnation, when God became flesh to become one flesh with us—a mystery the fourth Gospel calls “abiding.” This love began in the Father (John 3:16) and was completed by the Son on the cross (13:1).

John, “the disciple whom Jesus loved,” reclined on the chest of the Son, who, in turn, knew the Father this way (1:1, 18), and offers this love to anyone who believes the message (20:31; see 15:1-17).

The Holy Spirit brings this love into our hearts in a way that both satisfies what is necessary to trust the message and yet leaves us thirsty for the transformation of our bodies at the resurrection.

God loved the world in the Son. This love has been rejected, but God offers his love to every generation. God loves our children and grandchildren. We discern the many wounds of sin in our lives and the world around us, which, like the ministry of John the Baptist, prepares us to hear the call of the King today.

The most cited saying of our Lord in the early church was “love your enemies.” I can think of no better way to embody and celebrate Christmas.

By Dr. John DelHousaye