The Word Became Flesh: An Advent Devotional Day 6

 Day 6: He Came to Die That We Might Live

By Dr. Dimas Castillo

Scripture: John 1:4, 14
"In Him was life... The Word became flesh and dwelt among us."

Additional Reading: Isaiah 53:4-6, 2 Corinthians 5:21, 1 Peter 3:18

 Reflection

Here's the deeper mystery we must grasp: The One in whom was life came to die. Why did the Word who created all things come among us as a creature, a mere man? Why did the living One allow Himself to die?

At the climax of His earthly ministry, the eternal Word by whom God spoke light into being was shrouded in utter darkness as He hung upon the cross. The One in whom was life bled and died. Jesus came to die for sinners like you and me. He came to bear our penalty and secure our pardon so that we could live, so that we might have life in His name. This is the heart of the Gospel: the living One died so that the dead could live. The sinless One was made sin so that sinners could be made righteous. The One who knew no guilt bore our guilt so that we could be declared not guilty.

The baby born in Bethlehem was born to die. The manger was pointing toward the cross. And the cross was pointing toward the empty tomb. He died so that you could live—not just physically, but spiritually and eternally. He took your place, bore your punishment, satisfied God's justice, so that you could be forgiven and reconciled to God.

This is what Christmas is really about. Not just a baby in a manger, but the living Word coming to give His life as a ransom for many. This is love—not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.

Personal Application

1. How does it change your perspective to know that Jesus chose to die so you could live?
2. Spend time reflecting on what Jesus bore on the cross for you—your specific sins, guilt, and shame. How does this move your heart?
3. How should the reality of the cross shape the way you live today?

Prayer

Lord Jesus, the depths of Your love overwhelm me. You, the living One in whom was life, chose to die for me. You bore my sin, carried my guilt, endured my punishment, so that I could be forgiven and made alive. Thank you for the cross. Thank you for taking my place. Thank you for loving me that much. Help me live today in the freedom and joy of knowing I am forgiven, not because of anything I've done, but because of everything You've done. Amen.