Sometimes I think John should be the first book of the New Testament because it begins as the first book of the Old Testament. “In the beginning.” But I’m sure there was a reason for the order the Bible texts were placed. What we do know from this is that Jesus was there at creation. He wasn’t Jesus yet because that was the name given him for humans. For now, our Jesus is “The Word.”
He was with God and is God. That is quite something to wrap your head around. But then understanding the immensity of God and how incredible he is, we should not be surprised. We will never be able to fully explain God or truly understand him. That’s not our job. Yet, it does help to understand the very God we want to more resemble.
We know better than to “be” God, but to be “like” him is what we do strive for. At least I do. In ways that humans can be like God, in our compassion, love, goodwill, grace, etc. I know I can do better and am a work in progress.
I know that I can rely on God for all aspects of my life, yet I sometimes forget. That’s usually when I get into trouble or feel like I’ve done less than my best. I find disappointment staring me in the face. When I shove off on my own, taking the “bull by the horns,” so to speak, I’m quickly reminded that I should have done something first. I missed consulting with my best advisor, God himself.
Prayer is a great vehicle for communicating. It doesn’t have to be elaborate. It just has to be. How can you know or understand someone if you don’t communicate? The more I pray, the closer I feel to God. The more I read his word and reflect on it, the more grounded I feel.
What verse did you like best from today’s reading. I loved verse 5, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.” Do we understand the darkness as evil in the world? Then it goes without saying that the truth of Jesus, the Word, shall never be extinguished or taken over by the darkness (sin).
If you’re reading this reflection in real time (as I am writing), then we have just experienced Christmas and those memories are still fresh and real. For some of us, Christmas memories of the past had to hold us tighter this year than other years. Families close or far, always connected by prayer and a loving heavenly Father.
The Word is our focus. We need to pay attention to what the Word says and how it sets the direction for our lives. Communicating more with our creator and savior is also a two-way gift. Don’t let an opportunity pass you by to spend time in conversation with God.
Let’s pray. Father, I thank you for what we have to celebrate. You, your spirit, and the Word! Such a great reminder of how true and accessible you are. I am here because you made me. I know without a shadow of a doubt that I am loved by a king. Watch over friends and family who haven’t yet made the decision to be in conversation with you. Open their ears and hearts so that they can hear you again. In Jesus’ name. Amen.