In becoming man, the Word of God brought about a fundamental change in the very condition of time. We can say that in Christ human time was filled with eternity.
This transformation touches the destiny of all humanity, since “by his Incarnation, he, the Son of God, has in a certain way united himself with each man” (Gaudium et spes, n. 22). He came to offer everyone participation in his divine life. The gift of this life includes sharing in his eternity. Jesus said so especially with regard to the Eucharist: “He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life” (Jn 6:54).
John Paul II, General Audience, December 10, 1997
In Jesus Christ God not only speaks to man but also seeks him out. The Incarnation of the Son of God attests that God goes in search of man. It is a search which begins in the heart of God and culminates in the Incarnation of the Word. If God goes in search of man, created in his own image and likeness, he does so because he loves him eternally in the Word, and wishes to raise him in Christ to the dignity of an adoptive son.
John Paul II Apostolic Letter TERTIO MILLENNIO ADVENIENTE, November 10, 1994
Based on: « Les grands textes du pontificat » ; éditions du Jubilé 2005
