Blog
Christmas Day
The Word — Life and Light (John 1:1-14)
Isaiah 52:7-10
John 1:1-14
by Sally Vonner
“A man named John was sent from God. He came as a witness to testify concerning the light, so that through him everyone would believe in the light. He himself wasn’t the light, but his mission was to testify concerning the light.
The true light that shines on all people
—John 1:6-9 (CEB)
was coming into the world.”
Merry Christmas! This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and celebrate that God dwells among us. The one who was, is, and forever shall be, Emmanuel, “God with us,” is born. John 1:1-14 should set our hearts ablaze, not only on Christmas Day, but every day. The Word was in the beginning, was with God, is God, and in him is life and light.
What a gift we have received! Jesus is a gift that keeps giving life, light, and love to all people for all generations. John reminds us that Jesus invites us into his glory when we receive, believe, and embrace the power of being children of God.
As children of God, we are to witness and testify to the true light by letting our lights shine. United Women in Faith has, for generations, been letting our lights shine by following Jesus’ command to love God, love our neighbor, especially the most vulnerable among us, all while working for peace and justice. Our actions must evidence the light of Jesus, even when we grow weary in the difficult times this year. Honestly, knowing the impact on children, women, and families can make it difficult to honor Jesus’ command to love those who harm you. Even in moments of lament, our lights must shine bright as the star that evidenced Jesus’ birth, our true light, trusting God’s mercies are new every day for love, life, and salvation.
When we boldly walk together in Jesus’ power as children of God working for peace and justice, our collective lights will glisten brightly, casting the glory of Jesus above the chaos and disruptions of the world.
Prayer
As we celebrate the birth of Jesus today, may we once again welcome and give glory to the light of the world. Amen.
Sally Vonner is General Secretary and CEO of United Women in Faith.
