John 1:6-8 (NRSV)
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Verse 6There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. Verse 7He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. Verse 8He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light.
Devotion
It can be difficult to remember in the midst of the holiday busyness that, like John the Baptist, Christians are called to bear witness to the true light—Jesus. This true light will soon be shed abroad on everyone, but how will we recognize it when it begins to shine? Jesus let the true light shine through him in word and deed—healing the sick, preaching with authority, revealing God’s graciousness—but many did not recognize him as the true light for their lives. And so it still is today. Thank goodness the true light and its power to enlighten everyone doesn’t depend on our recognition of its appearing! The shining of the true light depends instead on the faithfulness of God, who never stops coming into the world to be its true light.
Prayer
Almighty God, strengthen the true light of Christ that shines in me and help me bear witness to your faithfulness and love in the coming week. Open my eyes and ears to the presence of your light. Amen.