God in Us: Experiencing Incarnation

Sunday Awe

“For what benefit is it to you if Christ came once in the flesh, unless He also comes into your soul?” (Origen, Homilies on the Gospel of Luke, Homily 22.3, trans. Joseph T. Lienhard, SJ)

At Christmastime, we rightfully celebrate the birth of Jesus—Emmanuel, the Son of God, the Light of the World. But as Origen of Alexandria asked in the 3rd century, what good is it to us if that Light which came into the world once long ago is not also born in us today?

It is important to study the life of Jesus and honor the sacred history of His birth. Yet unless that story reaches into our own souls—unless it transforms us from within—its benefit remains abstract and distant.

Origen continues, “Christ is the true light that enlightens every man who comes into the world. But he enlightens only those who open the eyes of their hearts. And when they are enlightened, they too become lights for others.” (Commentary on the Gospel of John, Book II, Ch. 31)

Christ came not simply to be a Light, but to ignite light in others—in us—so that we too might shine. A century later, Gregory of Nyssa echoed this truth when he wrote, “He becomes light in us, illuminating our minds. And we, reflecting that light, become suns ourselves.” (On the Beatitudes, Sermon 6) This mirrors the teaching of St. Paul, who spoke of Jesus as the “firstborn among many” (Romans 8:29).

The Incarnation is not merely a historical event; it is an ongoing mystery. Christ came not to be born once, but to be born again and again—in every heart open to Divine love. As Origen also affirmed: “Christ is always being born, and not only once, as some think.” (Homilies on the Gospel of Luke, Homily 22)

Be in AWE of the mystery of the Incarnation:

Aware. Pray, “Open the eyes of my heart.” Become aware of the indwelling presence of Christ.
Wonder. Gaze upon the mystery of Christ being born within you, and even as you.
Engage. Let your heart overflow with gratitude and joy. “Glory to You, O Christ, for You are born in us anew; Your light dawns in our hearts and gives joy to our souls!” (St. Ephrem the Syrian, adapted from Hymns on the Nativity, Hymn 3)

(Creation of Adam, Michaelangelo)

Monday Awe: God’s Nearness

St. Augustine: “You were within me, and I was outside, seeking you in the world.” (Confessions)
Thomas Merton: “The presence of God is not an abstract idea but a living reality within us.” (No Man Is an Island)
Julian of Norwich: “God is nearer to us than our own soul, holding us in love.” (Revelations of Divine Love)
Rumi: “The Beloved is closer than your breath, whispering in your heart.” (The Essential Rumi, paraphrased)
Bhagavad Gita 15:15: “I am seated in the heart of all living beings; from Me come memory, knowledge, and removal of doubt.”
Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (NIV)