1st: 1 Reason

Making lists of pros and cons whilst making a choice is a common practice; what are the benefits of this? What challenges could it bring up? Is the sacrifice greater than the gain? Sometimes, though, there is just one reason that will tip the balance - it's never quite as straightforward as following whichever list is longer. As Advent begins, my eyes are drawn to the fact that one reason, and one reason alone, can be powerful enough to outweigh either side of a pros and cons list. 

John 1:14 says that 'the Word became flesh and dwelt among us', which is the fundamental basis of why Christians celebrate Christmas; Christ was born as a baby, bringing God to us in the flesh. Here, it is termed 'the Word', though. Does that change things? 

The 'Word' is translated from the Greek, 'Logos', which means reason. The reason became flesh and dwelt among us. Christians know that the 'Word' referred to here, God in the flesh, is Jesus Christ, the son of God. First and foremost, He is the reason.

He is the one reason for advent. It is the lead up to Christmas we count down to in advent, when the birth of Christ is celebrated and enjoyed by many across the globe. Whilst it is easy to get distracted by the importance of food and lights and presents, our eyes have to remain focused on the true light and true reason for this celebration and joy - Jesus. 

There is one reason for Jesus: love. God sent His Son in flesh, humbly entering the darkness of the world firsthand, out of sheer love for you and me. The intention of his life was ultimately to be a sacrifice on the Cross and provide a way to bridge the gap between a sinful humanity and a Holy, perfect, God. Not because we were in any way deserving of it, or because God was lonely without us. Rather, His love was simply that great. Romans 5:8 tells us that 'God showed his great love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.' The one reason Jesus came was out of love.  

This leaves us with one reason; one reason to live. For Christians, our purpose is to glorify God and to know Him more. 

But, if you need one reason to wake up tomorrow, let it be that you are loved. 

If you need one reason to eat today, know that you are loved.

If you need one reason to reach out today, do it because you are loved. 

And if that is too far away right now, then I ask you to find one reason for yourself, or explore what Christians consider to be the reason, because it is out there. And you are really loved.

Whether you know the Lord personally or not, take my word for it; you are so loved, by a God willing to sacrifice his one and only Son just to know you. 

Take care.

'My command is this: love each other as I have loved you.' John 15:12