Scripture: Luke 2:8-14; 2 Corinthians 5:16-20
As we continue on in this Advent season, we find ourselves once again celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, our Savior. This period of waiting and preparation is a time to remember the historical birth of Jesus and reflect on the transformative power of this event in our lives today. Let us delve into the scriptures, Luke 2:8-14 and 2 Corinthians 5:16-20, to explore God’s magnificent plan to remake each one of us into more than we ever imagined through His grace and love.
A Night Like No Other
Luke 2:8-14 describes a moment both ordinary and extraordinary. Shepherds, tending their flocks by night, are visited by an angel bringing good news of great joy. This announcement marks the beginning of God’s transformative work through the birth of a baby—Jesus, our Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
“And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord”
This humble birth in a manger signifies the beginning of a new era—a new creation. God has chosen to start His plan of redemption and transformation in the most unexpected place and among the most modest of people. This sets the stage for how God sees and values each of us, regardless of our status or past.
God’s Plan for Transformation
The Apostle Paul, in 2 Corinthians 5:16-20, provides a comprehensive view of the transformation that occurs through Christ:
“From now on, therefore, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we once regarded Christ according to the flesh, we regard him thus no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.”
Here, Paul highlights the essence of God’s transformative power. Through the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus, we are invited into a new life—a new creation. In Lutheran theology, this is a pivotal theme: justification and sanctification through faith alone, by grace alone, in Christ alone. When we embrace this truth, we acknowledge that our old selves, burdened with sin and despair, are renewed through God’s mercy: made a new creation.
The Simplicity and Power of Faith
The transformation from the birth of Jesus to our new selves in Christ is both simple and profound. It begins in the heart, through faith. Here at West County Lutheran, we emphasize the importance of faith as the means through which God’s grace works in us. Faith is not the result of human effort, but rather a gift from God. This is where our transformation begins—recognizing that it is not by our own merit but through faith that we are made new.
Living as a New Creation
In our congregation, how do we manifest this new creation in our daily lives? The answer lies in understanding that transformation is ongoing. Martin Luther often spoke about the daily renewal of baptism. Each day, we are called to remember our baptism, where we were claimed by God and marked as His own. This daily remembrance is a spiritual practice that renews and transforms us continually.
Moreover, as new creations in Christ, we are called to reflect His love and grace in the world. This means offering forgiveness where there is hurt, bringing hope where there is despair, and sharing compassion with those in need. As Lutherans, our faith is lived out in love, evidenced by our good works not as a means to earn salvation but as a response to God’s unending love for us. In other words, now that you know God’s love, what do you want to do about it?
Transformation as Community
Our congregation is a testament to the transformative power of Christ’s birth. In community, we support and encourage one another to live out our faith. We gather around Word and Sacrament, reminded of God’s promises and strengthened for service in His name. As we celebrate the birth of Christ, let us also celebrate the birth of our community’s continuous renewal through Him.
Conclusion
This Advent, let us embrace God’s invitation to be transformed. From the announcement to the shepherds to the new life we have in Christ, God’s plan to remake us is both personal and communal. It’s a journey from manger to cross, from birth to new creation. May we live as reflections of His light and love, transformed by the birth of a baby into a new creation beyond our imaginings.
As we prepare for Christmas, may each of us feel renewed in spirit, inspired to live out the fullness of our new life in Christ Jesus, our Lord. Amen.
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