And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:14)

It is almost incomprehensible that the Word, the Creator himself, didn’t stay distant or abstract but chose to dwell among us. He didn’t holler at us from heaven but rather he walked our roads, sat at our tables, and entered our stories and our pain. Yeshua didn’t disciple from a distance. He lived among people because he loves people.

This is the heartbeat of incarnation; it is the purpose of mission—it’s God stepping into the neighborhood. He is the greatest immigrant of all time: he left heaven, left the comforts of the known, and came to dwell here on earth. This is the model we follow as his disciples today. We’re all called to step beyond our comfort zones—whether as missionaries, professionals, or in our daily lives—to bring his presence close to others. Our lives should serve as a reflection of the Messiah who saved us.

At Jews for Jesus, this is what we mean when we say we “live among” the people we reach. We literally live side by side as neighbors; we walk alongside our Jewish communities, share meals, listen, celebrate, and grieve together. Like Yeshua, we meet people where they are. We search for their felt needs and do our best to meet them. It’s not about lofty speeches or religious performance; it’s about relationship and community.

In a world that often prizes influence over intimacy, Yeshua reminds us that true ministry is incarnational and highly relational. It happens around kitchen tables, in workplace conversations, and through acts of love. When we dwell among others with the same humility and compassion that marked the Messiah’s life, his glory is revealed again through us.

This season, as we reflect on the mystery of the Word made flesh, may we remember that the Light of the World still shines through ordinary people—like all of us—who choose to be fully present right where God has placed them.

Reflection:

1. How can you intentionally “dwell among” the people God has placed in your life this season?
2. What might it look like to be more like Yeshua in your daily interactions?