God’s Strengthening Word: Singing for JoySample

Introduction

John 1:1–18: The opening to John’s Gospel is read in many Christian faith traditions on Christmas Day. It is in the form of a prologue or opening hymn that introduces the key themes to John’s Gospel. Jesus, the Word who already existed with God and whose life “brought light to people,” is the central figure. The section also highlights John, the son of Elizabeth and Zechariah, as one who bore witness to this divine light.

Today’s Key Verse: John 1:14a GNT

The Word became a human being and, full of grace and truth, lived among us.

Reflect

John presents Jesus as the Word who was with God when God created and gave life to everything. The opening words of John 1, “In the beginning,” echo the first line of Genesis 1. The first thing God created was light. How many times does the word “light” appear in today’s reading? What does referring to Jesus as “light” mean to you?

Pray

Lord Jesus, you are the Living Word and source of life. You are the true Light that no darkness can overcome. Grace and truth come through you. Out of the fullness of your grace, I am blessed. Because I believe in you, I know that I am a beloved child of God. Thank you, Jesus, for coming into the world as our Lord and Savior. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

John 1:19–34: John the Baptist’s message.