Reading through the first chapter of the Gospel of John, I’m struck with amazement at the many treasures of truth in these passages.  From the initial verses that describe a Creation account, to the last verse of chapter one that gives an image of life everlasting, we see the ultimate Truth:  God has come to us.  Immanuel – God with us!

The author and disciple of Jesus, John, describes the world much like today.  A world of darkness that doesn’t know the Lord.  Yet, the Light of God found in Jesus broke into the world some 2,000 years ago and still shines through His people, the Church, today.  Granted, many people have been turned off by the Church.  Understandably so, when you realize the Church is made up of people…humans…sinners in need of a Savior.  But there’s  Good News, even for the Church!  Jesus has come to people like me, sinners, those who are broken, who struggle, and makes us new in His Light of Love!

V. 14 reminds us of the love of God as He didn’t let our sinfulness stop the unfolding plan of salvation.  No, in fact, the Word of God became flesh and tabernacled (made His dwelling) among us.  What a great connection to Moses for the Jewish people to realize the one place God could be found in the Old Testament (the tabernacle) is now seen in Jesus, the Son of God.  Jesus is the living, eternal tabernacle of God, in the Flesh!  God is found here in Jesus.  Not just a prophet.  Not just a teacher.  Not just a really good guy, but God! Immanuel – God with Us!  Alleluia!

In Jesus we experience abundant, blessed living.  This is not to mean a life without struggle; no, it is a life knowing God is with us, forgiving us, strengthening us, blessing us, even in the midst of our struggles and sin.  With repentant hearts, we wait for His return while sharing His love and Truth in this broken world.  For one day we’ll see those angels ascend and descend on the Son of Man (1:51).  Until then, let us remember Jesus’ promise, “I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20)

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I give You thanks that You have sent Jesus, Your Word, into the flesh, to live the life I can’t and to forgive me and grant me and all believers eternal life.  You promise not to leave me.  For that, I can’t thank You enough. Amen.