The Most Generous Gift Ever Given

1 John 4:9-10 is an apt summation of the motive, the goal, and the impact of the Incarnation. It reads: "By this the love of God was displayed in us, in that God has sent His [One and] only begotten Son [the One who is truly unique, the only One of His kind] into the world so that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation [that is, the atoning sacrifice, and the satisfying offering] for our sins [fulfilling God’s requirement for justice against sin and placating His wrath]." (AMP) While this plan was in place long before the beginning of time, its earthly commencement began in a Bethlehem manger and culminated with a bloody cross and empty tomb in Jerusalem. And yet the full impact of God giving us His Son is headed towards our unending celebrations in New Jerusalem. What a Day that will be! 2 Corinthians 9:15 sums it up well: "Praise God for this incredible, unbelievable, indescribable Gift!" (VOICE) Gloria in excelsis Deo!