Christmas

One question that I have been surprised to get as often as I have is: “What would have happened if Adam and Eve had not eaten the fruit?” This is a question that has been asked numerous times over the history of the Church. However, the answer has always been the same: that we can play the “what if” game all we want, it is moot point because at the end of the day they ate it. That being said, one thing we know for sure would have been the same whether they ate the fruit or not is this: Jesus would have still been born.

The Incarnation (God taking on our human nature and becoming man) was always part of His plan, regardless of what happened with Adam and Eve. One way we know this for sure is from our own creation. The Bible tells us that all human beings are created in the image and likeness of God; not in terms of physical appearance, but spiritual. We are reflections of God. But what is better: the reflection or the reality? God did not want to stop at having us be mere reflections of Himself; He wants us to be like Him in full. His plan was to become like us in all things in order for Him to make us like Himself; and so He has done. 

The feast we celebrate this week, the Birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, is the first realization of this plan. Jesus is born of Mary, God is come in the flesh, sharing in our human nature, so that we might share in His divine nature. As we celebrate the birthday of our Lord and Savior, may we join the ranks of angels in offering praise and thanksgiving to God for all the wonders He works for us!