Reading: John 1:1-14

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 came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people.

The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him. He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him. But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God, who were born, not of blood or of the will of the flesh or of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth.

Reflection:

Christmas is almost here, and today we get the reading from John about the Word becoming flesh. In this reading, I particularly like the talk of the light. Jesus is the light of the world and shines in the darkness. At this time of year Christmas lights are shining bright. As we worked through Advent more and more light had been lit. Then on Christmas Eve a lot of our churches light even more lights by singing Silent Night with everyone holding a lit candle. The light has come!!

The other part of this text that really stands out to me is the last words: full of grace and truth. Jesus has come to earth. He is full of grace and truth. He shows that to the people both then and now. It is the good news that we are to share with people. It is especially easy to do that at Christmas time. Jesus is the light of the world who is full of grace for all and that is a truth we need to spread.

–Charlene Rineer

Prayer:

Loving God, we praise your holy name. We thank you that you sent your son to earth to spread truth and grace. Help us shine your light to others and show them your love.

Amen.