by Pastor Michael Salemink
Blessed Feast of the Annunciation to you!
On this day we celebrate the Word becoming flesh (John 1:14).
Nine months before His birth, the Holy Spirit’s power and the angel Gabriel’s decree conceived Jesus in His mother Mary’s womb.
Like every human embryo, this Jesus belonged to no other biological classification, since species only reproduce after their own kinds.
Like every human embryo, this Christ had his own DNA different from anyone else’s (including mama’s).
Like every human embryo, this Savior met the scientific standard for living: grows, undergoes respiration, responds to stimuli, and metabolizes.
Like every human embryo, this Lord satisfied the technical criteria of an organism (rather than merely being part of another): develops toward maturity, coordinates functions for the good of the whole, adapts to environmental variations, and repairs damage.
From the moment of fertilization, the Son of God became a living human being. Our Almighty Maker chose to incarnate Himself specifically this way in order to sanctify and redeem every member of our race, no matter what age, appearance, or ability. Such humility and gentleness brought about His crucifixion for our forgiveness and His resurrection for our everlasting life. His coming among us makes even our unborn neighbors gifts and privileges.
Thanks be to God that the gestation of Jesus proclaims us special, proves us precious, and pronounces us priceless. And may He bless our Gospel-motivated voices For Life with courage and compassion to speak it and show it!