December 24
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1: 1-5 ESV
Before our sin, before human failure, and before our fears, Jesus, the Son of God existed. He did not come into being because God needed a backup plan. He was not created like Adam, nor was he a reincarnated version of one of the fathers of our faith (Abraham, Elijah, etc.). Lies like this abound in the world today to confuse us into thinking that Jesus wasn’t who he said he was. “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’” (John 14:6)
For those who are grieving, weary, and looking for peace that surpasses understanding, Jesus is the answer. Your prayers may feel thin in your trouble, but he is our advocate with the Father when we don’t have the words. You can’t see him, but he sent to us the Holy Spirit to guide us until his return, and you are never alone. Be comforted today knowing that God the Son, who was made flesh, was present in the beginning with God the Father. All things were made through him and he was—and still is— the light of men.
As Christmas celebrations kick into full force, turn to the heart of the holiday. Look back on our Advent lessons to understand that Jesus’ birth, death, and resurrection were the fulfillment of God the Father’s plan for us. Make Jesus’ sacrifice the center of your daily living and serving. Shine the light of your Savior into the darkness around you so that all may come to saving knowledge the One who died for the world before we knew him. Merry Christmas.
Prayer for today:
Heavenly Father, we stand in awe of your creation and your plan for us all. Bless those who love you and guide them in your ways. Give us opportunities to share the light of the world with those still living in darkness. Fill us all with peace and joy as we celebrate the birth of your Son. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
