Advent Part 3 : Love

Love Came Down: A Reflection on God’s Boundless Love at Christmas

Christmas is a season that amplifies love, generosity, and togetherness. From acts of kindness to gifts exchanged among loved ones, this time of year reminds us of the beauty of love in its many forms. But where does love originate? The Bible gives us a clear answer: love comes from God because God is love.

“This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.”

– 1 John 4:9 (NIV)

At its core, Christmas is the celebration of God’s ultimate act of love. This love didn’t begin with Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem; it has always been. God, who is eternal, is love itself. As the Bible opens with the words, “In the beginning, God,” we could also say, “In the beginning, love.”

Chosen in Love

Before the world was formed, God had already chosen us in love. Ephesians 1:4-5 says:

“In Christ, he chose us before the world was made. He chose us in love to be his holy people—people who could stand before him without any fault.”

This truth dismantles the misconception that God’s love must be earned. We don’t need to belong to a specific “club” or meet a set of rigid requirements. God’s love isn’t conditional upon perfection or performance. Instead, He created us for intimacy and relationship, and His love remains steadfast even when we falter.

Though humanity sinned and distanced itself from God, His love never wavered. From Adam and Eve to the nation of Israel, God consistently made His presence known. Whether through a burning bush with Moses, a whisper to Elijah, or walking in the garden with Adam and Eve, God showed His love by drawing near to His people.

Love Came Down at Christmas

The ultimate expression of God’s love is found in Jesus. Love came down from heaven in the form of a baby, born in humble surroundings, to live among us and show us the depths of God’s care.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

– John 3:16

This wasn’t a distant love but a love that entered into our brokenness. Jesus came to defeat sin, Satan, and death and to reconcile us to God. Through His life, Jesus demonstrated love in action—healing the sick, feeding the hungry, and speaking truth to thirsty souls. Ultimately, His sacrificial death on the cross revealed the height, depth, and breadth of God’s love.

Keeping Focus Amid the Noise

The Christmas season often arrives with its own set of challenges—financial pressures, relational tensions, and the whirlwind of endless to-dos. In the midst of this, it’s easy to lose sight of the true meaning of Christmas. Yet, this season is a chance to refocus on God’s love.

God’s love is unwavering. Even when we feel distracted or overwhelmed, His presence remains constant. Jesus’ arrival reminds us that love isn’t about perfection; it’s about grace and redemption.

As Corrie Ten Boom said:

“Who can add to Christmas? The perfect motive is that God so loved the world. The perfect gift is that He gave His only Son. The only requirement is to believe in Him. The reward of faith is that you shall have everlasting life.”

Lifted by Love

Love came down on Christmas morning to lift us to new life. In Jesus, we find hope, forgiveness, and empowerment. Let’s not let the noise of the world drown out the harmony of heaven this season.

On Christmas, love came down so Jesus could lift us up. This Christmas, remember how deeply you are loved, and let that love overflow to those around you.