#[1 Timothy 2:5-7]; [Hebrews 2:17]; [Matthew 1:21]; [Mark 3:20-21] #
Ashwin emphasizes the importance of recognizing both the divinity and humanity of Jesus, noting that Evangelical churches often overlook the latter. He argues that Jesus's Incarnation—God taking on human flesh—demonstrates God's nearness and allows Jesus to be the perfect mediator between God and humanity. Ashwin uses the story of John Griffin, who temporarily darkened his skin to experience life as a Black man, as an analogy to illustrate Jesus's role. Through the Incarnation, God experienced human limitations, pain, and struggles, enabling Jesus to fully understand and relate to human suffering. He addresses the accusations against God, such as those voiced by Job, questioning how God can truly comprehend human disappointments and heartbreaks. Ashwin connects this to the Christmas story, highlighting Mary's difficult social position and the turbulent political landscape of Jesus's birth, including the massacre of infants by Herod, and the refugee status of the holy family. He shares the anecdote of a Muslim man's critique of the Christian concept of God experiencing pain and suffering and describes Jesus's emotional capacity, including compassion, sorrow, anger, and joy. Furthermore, Ashwin points out that Jesus understands family conflicts, exhaustion, betrayal, rejection, and the challenges of being single. Ashwin explains that Jesus's humanity was necessary for him to be a merciful and faithful high priest and offers the ultimate sacrifice to redeem humanity from slavery to sin, referencing the story of Hosea ransoming Gomer from the slave market. He concludes by highlighting the real gift of Christmas: ransom, redemption, and freedom through Jesus.