Flesh

 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. And the Word became flesh and lived among us. – John 1:1 & 14a (NRSV)

This is what we celebrate at Christmas: that God, who didn’t need one, got a body. That God was so hungry to be close to us that nothing—not eternity, not power, not immortality—was too much to give up, and nothing—not time, not weakness, not a mortal body—was too much to take on. This is what we celebrate: God with a body. 

So it’s fitting that so many of our Christmas traditions have to do with delights of the flesh: eating, drinking, singing, hugging and kissing, seeing beautiful things, hearing beautiful sounds, smelling good smells. Each is an opportunity for worship and praise.  

So in these days of Christmas, take time to consecrate your fleshly pleasures to the God that consecrated your flesh by taking it on. Make them sacraments: Marvel at the miracle of food and drink. Be astounded by the sanctity of human touch. Wonder at the beauty around you, delight in making and hearing sounds of praise, revel in a beautiful smell. Celebrate with your body, and say that God is great. 

At Christmas, this is what we celebrate: that bodies are good, and flesh is a gift, and our God put them both on for us. Be sure you take some time to use yours to praise God today. 

Prayer
Holy and eternal one, the wonders of your love are beyond my ability to comprehend. But I thank you for my body, I thank you for getting your body, and I praise your holy name. Merry Christmas, God. Amen.

About the Author
Quinn G. Caldwell is Chaplain of the Protestant Cooperative Ministry at Cornell University. His most recent book is a series of daily reflections for Advent and Christmas called All I Really Want: Readings for a Modern Christmas. Learn more about it and find him on Facebook at Quinn G. Caldwell.