Feasting

Emmannuel, God with us.

Anytime anyone drew near to God it was completely terrifying. God appears to Abraham as a smoking furnace ( Genesis 15 v 17 ), to the nation of Israel as a pillar of fire ( Exodus 13 v 21 ), to Job as a hurricane or tornado (Job 38 v 41 ). When Moses asked to see the face of God, he was told it would kill him, that at best he could only get near to God's back as He passed by ( Exodus 33 v 18 - 21 ). When Moses came down the mountain, his face was so bright with radiance that the people could not look at him ( Exodus 34 v 29,30 ) - so great, so high and unapproachable .

Then God showed up in Jesus Christ, He was not a pillar of fire, not a tornado, but a baby.
Why would God come this time in the form of a baby, rather than a firestorm or whirlwind? Because this time He has come not to bring judgment but to bear it, to pay the penalty for our sins, to take away the barrier between humanity and God, so we can be together. Through Jesus we can meet God. Know Him personally and without terror.
( based on writings by Tim Kellar )


John 3 v17
God sent His Son into the world not to judge the world , but to save the world through Him.

From heaven you came,
Helpless babe,
Entered our world,
Your glory veiled;
Not to be served
But to serve,
And give Your life
That we might live.
( Graham Kendrick )