Modern Religious Experience: Reflection #9: The Incarnation of God

Modern Religious Experience: Reflection #9: The Incarnation of God: "After viewing 'The Nativity Story', analyzing your chosen Christmas carol, and reading Philippians 2:1-7, reflect on the meaning of Christma..."

Silent night, holy night!
Shepherds quake at the sight
Glories stream from heaven afar
Heavenly hosts sing Alleluia!
Christ, the Saviour is born
Christ, the Saviour is born

The well-known Christmas carol, "Silent Night", is a description of the time of Jesus Christ's birth. It describes Jesus as the 'Saviour' who came from heaven, sent by God, to save the people. In this particular verse, readers can gain a sense that Jesus' birth was miraculous and important, when it emphacizes the fact that, "Shepherds quake at the sight." This shows that the shepherds quaked, or were emotionally moved, at the sight of the birth of Jesus. Secondly, "glories stream from heaven afar" shows that Jesus' birth was a gloried gift sent from heaven. Similar to in Philippians 2:1-7 and in Nativity, in "Silent Night", Jesus is described as being the Saviour of the people, and the Son of God.

Mary's role in Jesus' birth was being the mother. She gave birth to Him, as a virgin.
Joseph's role was to protect and take care of Mary during her pregnancy, and guide her to Bethlehem.
The shepherds were present at the time of Jesus' birth, and adored and praised His presence. One shepherd allowed Joseph and Mary to stay at his stable, the place where Jesus was born.
The Persian astrologers, also known as the three wise men, gave Joseph and Mary the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, when they visited Jesus.

Jesus is described as the Son of God and the child of Mary--who gave birth to Jesus as a virgin, through the power of the Holy Spirit. He is a Saviour for the people, and will eventually die for their sins. In my opinion, I believe God sent Jesus as a baby because this way, he can be portrayed as a humble, innocent person. Also, living the full life of a human being would give Him the full perspective on life, and would allow Him to better relate to God's sons and daughters. This way, He could be a caring and loving God, having close relationships with each and every one of us.

After viewing "The Nativity Story", "Silent Night", and reading Philippians 2:1-7, I believe the meaning of Christmas is to remember, praise, and celebrate God, our Saviour.