Christmas Devotions
Friday, January 2
John 1:1-9
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being 4 in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overtake it.
6 There was a man sent from God whose name was John. 7 He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. 8 He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. 9 The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.
“… He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. …”
New Years brings new opportunities. For some, it begins with resolutions concerning changes they’d like to make in their lives. Typically, while the intentions are sound, the follow through seldom lasts. Before, long, the same patterns of behavior return. Change is slow.
John the Baptizer came as a witness to the light so that, by seeing and walking in that light, others may come to believe. While an audacious resolution, John saw it through to the end – ultimately, at the cost of his life. He recognized that the helping others to see the light of Christ would bring about life. Without the light, the darkness of sin, death, and the devil remain. John became a powerful witness to the light.
In amidst your other New Years resolutions, I hope that you will take on John’s role as a witness to the light. In our world darkened by sin and death, knowing that the light shine is critical not only to our lives but the life of the world. Following John’s example, I hope that you will make your New Years resolution to be a witness to the light a solid and lasting one throughout the new year.
Prayer: Lord of Light, as You sent John to witness to the light of Christ, so too send me out as w witness that folks may see Your glory, and come to believe in You. Amen.