First Impressions

Most people have heard about the importance of making a good first impression. I too have given this idea considerable thought, especially while moving to a new city to begin a new work. After all, no one wants to start a job off on the wrong foot and convince others that he or she is socially awkward or incapable for the task. Needless to say, first impressions really do matter to most people.

As I read through scripture, I find myself “standing in awe” of God as he makes first impressions on his people. I think about the impressions God made on Adam by proving himself to be the great creator of all things. My mind then recalls stories of Moses and Pharaoh, who were both exposed to the holiness of the Lord as he demonstrated that all of nature is under his control. Next, I remember the impression God made on the Israelites, who learned to trust in the one who saved them from slavery. Without a doubt, on countless occasions God has made a lasting first impression by showing himself to be holy and greater than all others.

Still, there is one first impression made by God that has a tendency to surprise people. The story of Jesus is an amazing story because here God chooses the most unlikely of ways to demonstrate to his people who he is. While scholars awaited the great Messiah, and religious zealots anticipated a war hero Christ, few expected the birth of a baby boy in a manger. What an unexpected first impression Jesus made! There was no room for him at an inn, he was hunted to be killed, he was honored by the most unlikely guests (astrologers and shepherds), and on top of all this, Jesus’ birth was surrounded by scandal and controversy following a miraculous conception. A good first impression? Few would have believed so. Still, it is here that we find a picture of God's character that could not be put into words. God is with us, and he is one of us!