Throughout the thousands of years of Judeo-Christian history, countless names have been given to God.  Examples from Scripture include Mighty One, Unshakable Refuge, Anointed One, Abba, Advocate, and the Alpha and Omega.  Another title, highlighted during Christmas Mass, is the Word.  In the Gospel of John (John 1:1–18) we hear: “In the beginning was the Word… and the Word was God.” The text goes on to proclaim that through God all things came to be.

Imagine, for a moment, this Creator of the universe — a universe that spans billions of years and contains hundreds of billions of galaxies, with countless solar systems and planets. Oh, the vastness of God!

The Gospel continues: “And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” This is what we celebrate today — Immanuel, God with us. Oh, the intimacy of God!

The Word, the Divine Source of all that is, takes on flesh to become “the light of the human race.” This “true light, which enlightens everyone,” is Jesus of Nazareth. He is “full of grace and truth.”  And the illuminating truth that Jesus brings to humanity is what eventually sets us all free: we are beloved children of God!  We are the image-bearers of the One who created us!  

Merry Christmas, Alleluia! 

Each of us has a piece of the truth. If we don't tell our truth, the whole truth can't be known. We each have a piece of God to incarnate.  — Sr. Gabriele Uhlein (paraphrased)

Opportunity:  Share a part of the truth that you incarnate, your experience of God, with another.

May you be inspired!  

NOTE: This reflection is part of an Advent Reflection Series initially published by Tau Center.  You can find the full series on  Still Point.