Devotion:
Read John 1:10-14.
There are sad words in today’s reading: “He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him.” People locked their doors to shut him out. Little has changed since John wrote those words in his gospel. Today millions of people are without Christ in their hearts. They say they are doing just fine without Him. In The Message, a paraphrase of the Bible, Eugene Peterson articulates John 1:14 this way: “The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood.” Max Lucado, in one of his books, refers to Jesus as “a next door Savior.” Others have said that Jesus “tented” among us. That’s what happened when Jesus came: the eternal Son of God moved into our neighborhood and set up camp.
And when he did come, he became one of us. He came within our reach, he identified with us, and he came to trade places with us. He came close enough so that even shepherds who were looked down on were able to see and touch him. He grew up in an ordinary home, in a small, commonplace village. Later, throughout his teaching ministry he moved among ordinary people, touching lepers, healing the sick, and showing God’s love to all kinds of sinners. Jesus wants to be in our neighborhoods, touching and changing lives. And as you follow Him, remember that Jesus wants to move into your neighborhood. He desires to be part of your life.
Personal Worship Option:
Thank you God, for taking on our flesh and blood. You know us. Remind us that you are still in our neighborhood, and help us to live our lives for you. Let this be our prayer.
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