John 1:14 (Contemporary English Version)
The Word became a human being and lived here with us. We saw his true glory, the
glory of the only Son of the Father. From him all the kindness and all the truth of God
have come down to us.
Encouragement
Sometimes God feels far away. It's as if you believe, but don't really experience Him. You have questions, you are tired, you have worries. Then John 1:14 is a warm word: God did not remain at a distance. He came close. The ‘Word’ means Jesus, God's message in living form. He became human, with real feet on real ground. He knew pain, joy, friendship and sorrow. He is not just an idea, but a Person who wants to live with people.
“Coming to live with us” means: Jesus pitches his tent in your neighbourhood. He does not want to be only in a church building, but also in your home, your thoughts, your ordinary days. At work, in your family, in your solitude. And John says: He is “full of grace and truth”. Grace is: God does not look away when you fall short. Truth is: God does not pretend that everything is fine, but helps you to become honest, so that you can grow.
In church, you see this when someone not only talks about God after the service, but also shows compassion: bringing a meal, sending a card, praying together in times of illness. That is grace in action.
In society, you see it when people in a difficult neighbourhood continue to care for each other: informal care, volunteering, a listening ear. Jesus shows that true love does not boast, but comes close.
Question to ponder
What do you need: grace (forgiveness, peace) or truth (clarity, direction)? And do you dare to let Jesus come close to you in that?
Take this with you
- God is not far away; He came close in Jesus.
- Grace: you can come as you are.
- Truth: you don't have to stay as you were.
Final thought
Jesus came to live among people. That means you don't have to carry your life alone. He is close, full of grace and truth—even today.