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John 1:14 — “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.”

John’s words capture the wonder of Christmas in a single phrase: “The Word was made flesh.” The eternal Son, through whom all things were created, became man and lived among us. This is the heart of the incarnation. Gratitude swells when we realize that God did not remain distant but came near in Christ.

The word “dwelt” means “tabernacled.” Just as God’s presence once filled the tabernacle, now His presence was fully revealed in Christ. Gratitude for Christmas is gratitude for God’s dwelling, not in a tent or temple, but in human flesh.

John declares that they beheld His glory. The glory of God was revealed not in thunder and fire but in the humility of the Son, full of grace and truth. Gratitude flows when we see God’s glory displayed in compassion, mercy, and love.

The incarnation is essential for salvation. Christ had to become man to die for our sins, yet He remained fully God to conquer death. Gratitude grows when we realize the depth of His love in becoming what we are to redeem us.

For pastors, this passage anchors preaching in the mystery of Christ. For the flock, it anchors faith in the reality that God Himself has come near. Gratitude gives us confidence that we are not alone, for Emmanuel has come.

The Word made flesh is the ultimate reason for thanksgiving. God has come, His glory revealed, His grace given. Gratitude is the only fitting response to the wonder of the incarnation.