The King has traveled from the Throne to the Manger just to be near you
Author
Dr. Ernst Diehl
Summary: On this holy night, as we focus on the manger in Bethlehem, let's first look up to God in His heavenly throne of Justice and Righteousness. But what's truly amazing is that Love and Faithfulness lead the way for Him. Fast forward to the stable where Jesus, embodying grace and truth, shows us that the God of heaven has come to dwell among us on earth. This Christmas Eve, remember that you don't have to be perfect to approach God, because He has come down to be with you in love and grace.
On this holy night, our gaze is fixed on a manger. But to understand the true wonder of what is happening in Bethlehem, we must first look up—way up.
In Psalm 89, the Bible offers us a glimpse of God in His heaven. We see a King on a high throne. We are told that the very foundation of this throne is Justice and Righteousness. This reminds us that God is holy, powerful, and pure. It is an image of majesty, but it can also seem distant, perhaps even a bit intimidating for imperfect people like us.
But look closely at who leads the procession in that Psalm. The verse says that Love and Faithfulness go before Him. They are the heralds announcing His arrival.
Now, let’s fast-forward to the stable.
John tells us that the Word became flesh and "dwelt among us." The King did not stay in the high castle of heaven; He pitched His tent in our chaotic world. And when John looked into the face of Jesus, what did he see? He saw a glory "full of grace and truth."
This is the miracle of Christmas Eve: The Love and Faithfulness that walked before God's throne in heaven have now taken on a human face on earth.
The God who rules the stars has come down to rest in the straw. He did not abandon His truth, but wrapped it in grace so that we could approach Him without fear.
Tonight, you do not have to scale the heavens to find God. You do not have to worry if you are "good enough" to approach the Throne of Justice. The King has left the throne to be with you. He is no longer just the God who rules over us; He is the God who dwells with us.