Good Monday morning to you. John 1:9-14 (NIV)
9 The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. 10 He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. 11 He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. 12 Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— 13 children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.
14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
The first thing that caught my eye was the word “everyone” in vs 9. The proclamation of the Gospel…the truth and the light of all creation…the Messiah…the provider…the way…of everlasting divine grace…was coming and is here…for all mankind.
Then John describes our sad state of affairs…of how our brokenness…our blindness…has and can keep us from “receiving” Him. Yes, I know that the first reference in vs 11 is probably to the Jews…His chosen people, but I also believe it could be in reference to “the beginning”…just like Pastor pointed out yesterday, to better understand…we need to go back to where we were created in His image…where He breathed in us..when we were all chosen…but then made a choice…where we lost that “breath of life”.
I don’t know about you, but I think that I have trouble “receiving” at times….maybe my understanding of the word isn’t too clear…
receive:
1. to take into one's possession (something offered or delivered): to receive many gifts.
2. to have (something) bestowed, conferred, etc.: to receive an honorary degree.
3. to have delivered or brought to one: to receive a letter.
4. to get or be informed of: to receive instructions; to receive news.
5. to be burdened with; sustain: to receive a heavy load.
Wow…I like the first four, but that last one….maybe we better leave it for another time.
For me…Pastor nailed it..and me..which is good…I need it…when he talked about our place “deep inside”…that big hole in my chest...in my “center”...and the things that I try to fill it with..things that don’t last. Then I look at vs 12…” Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God”. What good news! Receive…making a choice to trust in Him…to have faith in Him..a faith not born of me or any man, but of God! A faith in the One who provides life changing restoration and grace…who restores “the breath of life”..so as to be His adopted son. Oh what good news that is! Such good news, that He sent his only begotten Son…the Word..to dwell among us…pitch his tent, in this world…for you and me! Our restored, yet new life...grace filled, but yet one in which He was always been there…and always will be. Praise be to God!
How’s your “receiver” working today?
Love to hear what you think and how He’s speaking to you, today.
Blessings to you and yours!
jim