The Word Became Flesh

Many of the things we once thought extraordinary have become ordinary over time. Technological advancements like cell phones or launching satellites into space have become a part of ordinary life. Similarly, the birth of Jesus—a miraculous and extraordinary event—can sometimes feel routine as we celebrate it annually. Yet, Jesus’ birth, even though are celebrations might seem familiar, remains God’s extraordinary act of becoming human.

The story of Simeon and Anna at the temple illustrates how the extraordinary can emerge amid the ordinary. Guided by the Holy Spirit, Simeon recognized Jesus as the Messiah, proclaiming him as the salvation and light for all people. Anna, too, immediately acknowledged the infant’s significance. Despite the miraculous events surrounding Jesus’ birth, these declarations surprised even Mary and Joseph.

This serves as a reminder for us today: it is easy to let the extraordinary message of Christmas fade into the background of routine and distractions. Yet, just as God did something incredible through the ordinary people and events of Jesus’ life, he continues to work through us. The Creator entered creation to transform the world and invites us, as ordinary as we may feel, to participate in his extraordinary mission of love and redemption.