The Fullness of the Time

But when the fullness of the time came, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the Law, so that He might redeem those who were under the Law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. (Galatians 4:4-5)

This to me sums up the perfection and purpose of the incarnation of Christ, which we celebrate this season. The birth of Christ was not a randomly timed event, not a chance happening, not a divine Plan B. Far from any of those, it was according to the fore-ordained plan of God the Father. The timing of the the birth of the Messiah was just right, it was planned and executed by God "when the fullness of the time came." For thousands of years, God had been preparing His people, the world, the entire universe for the time when He would enter that creation in Person. At just the right time, the time He Himself had chosen before the foundation of the world.

And we see here the purpose of the incarnation as well. It's right after the "so that" in the passage. To redeem the people of His own choosing, who were condemned by ("under") His perfect Law. And to what end? So that those people might be adopted into His eternal family as children. To receive the rights and privileges of sonship to the Most High God. Incredible grace.

As we celebrate Christmas, remember the perfection of timing of the first advent of Christ. Remember the perfection of purpose of His coming. And remember the privileged relationship those of us who have trusted in His Gospel enjoy.