The Incarnation: Why God Wanted to Become Human
February 2, 2009
This month our reading and discussion will explore this foundational mystery of our Christian faith. More than a truth to be believed, this is God’s self-communication!
We hope to come to a greater understanding of God, God’s activity and our response.
Most importantly, we’ll explore the implications of the incarnation…what difference does it make?
Begin with this Catholic Update: The Incarnation-Why God Wanted to Become Human (pdf), by Kenneth Overberg, S.J. for a wealth of considerations and probably some new insights.
Then go to this Catholic Update: Jesus Christ – Why the Word became Flesh (pdf), by Stephen Doyle, OFM for some Pauline theology very practical reflections.
If you have a copy of The Holy Longing by Rev. Ron Rohlheiser, re-read his chapter on the Incarnation.
Points to ponder from The Holy Longing, by Rev. Ron Rohlheiser
- A theist is one who believes in God – a God who is transcendent, who is in heaven, who is present in some vague way in matter…
- A Christian is one who believes in God who is incarnate – God who is physically present on this earth inside human beings. The Christian God is transcendent, the ground of our being AND has a physical body on earth. The Christian God can be seen, heard, tasted and smelled through the senses.
- Incarnation affects
- How we relate to God
- How we relate to other persons
- How we pray
- How we seek healing and reconciliations
- How we seek guidance
- How we understand community
- How we understand “religious” experience
- How we understand our “mission”