Faith Bible Church

Emmanuel, God with us.  What an awesome thought!  The Creator of the universe, who spoke all things into creation, became flesh and dwelt among us.  In the beginning He walked in the Garden of Eden with Adam and Eve. Then He spoke to the patriarchs. Next He dwelt among the nation of Israel.  Then came the revelation of the Living Word… Jesus!  God’s desire to be with His people didn’t stop there! After Jesus’ ascension, we were not left as orphans.  Instead, the Holy Spirit was sent to dwell within those who have believed in the person and work of Jesus.  Finally, it is through the Holy Spirit that believers in Jesus have been sealed until the day that they will live with Him in eternity!   From the beginning of creation until eternity, God wants to be with us.  

It is obvious that God has pursued us intentionally.  This is an encouraging truth--especially for me, since I didn’t really get a chance to know my biological father.  As a child, I longed to know and play with my dad in the same ways that my friends spent time with their dads.  I desired a father who would protect me, provide for me, and be a role model for me.  Although God later provided a wonderful stepfather to help fill these needs, I have learned to find love, guidance, and affirmation in my heavenly Father.

When I look at the life of Jesus, I see continual guidance and affirmation from the Father to the Son as Jesus accomplished the Father’s work.  As Dann Spader writes, “The whole theology of the incarnation is that God Himself became flesh and dwelt among us.”  While Jesus (the second Adam) walked on the earth as a man, He accomplished what the first Adam didn’t.  Jesus lived a life of perfect obedience, paving the way to forgiveness through the redemptive work of His spotless sacrifice.  In doing so, He gave us the perfect example for life and godliness!  I am overwhelmed by the fact that God loves me so much that He sent His Son.  Furthermore, I’m in awe that just like in Jesus’ incarnation, my heavenly Father will never leave me nor forsake me!  There is nothing that can separate me from His love!  What better motivator is there to serve such a passionate, personal, pursuing God?