Hans Sangtoki Bible Reading: John 1:1-14
“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14)
John introduces Jesus as “the Word”. After spending three years walking with Jesus, John begins his gospel by proclaiming what he had seen about Christ. Jesus being “the Word” means that Jesus was the one who not only proclaimed the truth of God through speech but also through His actions and daily life. Jesus in Himself was a witness to the whole counsel of God.
From the beginning, John proclaims that Jesus is Creator. Using the language of Genesis 1:1, John says, “In the beginning was the Word…All things were made through Him, and without Him was not any thing made that was made” (John 1:1,3). Through Jesus, God created all things, including us.
John makes it clear that “the Word was God”. Jesus is God. He is one who we worship. Jesus was not just another religious leader or a charismatic man. He was God who came to earth.
Yet, we learn that Jesus was also with God. Jesus is the second person of the trinity. He is distinct in person from the Father and the Holy Spirit (who is introduced later in the book of John. Yet, the three are one and are God. “and the Word was with God…He was in the beginning with God” (John 1:1-2).
This is Christ’s identity. Yet, He came to become flesh, to become light in this dark world and radiate with grace and truth. He is our creator who became man. He is the second person of the triune God who became flesh. Our faith is not an airy-fairy belief in myths and legends. It is grounded in the fact that God visited us as a man and dwelt among us. It is grounded in the fact that His life shone with grace and truth, revealing His glory.
Here are questions to ponder on as we near Christmas.
Who is this Jesus, God and creator of the universe, willing to condescend and become man? What would move Him to leave behind so much of His heavenly glory?
Who is Jesus to you? Have you seen His glory full of grace and truth?
Lord, prepare our hearts for this coming Christmas. Once again, we long to know You and the glory of Your grace. Draw us closer in relationship with You this Christmas. Forgive us for the many idols that take over our hearts. Lead us back to the holy and straight path. In Jesus’ name, amen.