Day 1: Jesus – The Word, the Life and the Light
Scripture Reading: John 1:1-14
Key Verse:
12 But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, 13 who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. (John 1:12-13)
Jesus’ Work
1. In Creation:
Just as Genesis describes the creation of the world, the Gospel of John reveals Jesus’ role in creation. As the eternal Word, He was with God and was God, actively involved in both the creation of the world and God’s plan of salvation for the lost. Jesus is not merely a messenger of God’s Word—He is the Word, the divine expression of God’s will and power.
2. In Relationship with God the Father:
John’s Gospel uniquely highlights the deep and intimate relationship between Jesus and His Heavenly Father. This introduction sets the foundation for Jesus’ teachings on His union with the Father and the assurance He offers His disciples: that through Him, they too have access to God as His children. Jesus came not only to reveal the Father but also to invite us into this divine relationship.
3. In God’s Salvation Plan:
Jesus is the source of life, and His Word brings life and light to all. His light shines in the darkness, guiding people out of spiritual blindness into the truth of God’s salvation plan. To those who believe in Him and receive His name, He gives the right to become children of God—not by human effort, but by the will of God.
4. The Word Became Flesh:
The light of the world came, as flesh, dwelling among men. Such was His bearing, that through Him, many see the glory of God manifested in the Son, as one who brings light to a place of darkness.
Jesus’ Teaching
1. Testimony of John the Baptist:
John the Baptist was sent as a forerunner, preparing the way for Jesus by calling people to repentance and pointing them toward the coming Messiah. He bore witness to Jesus as the Light of the World and declared His divine mission. John humbly acknowledged that his own role was to direct people to Jesus, whose purpose was to restore them as children of God.
Disciple’s Reflection
John the Baptist was sent as a forerunner, proclaiming the arrival of Jesus and calling people to repentance. His life was wholly devoted to preparing hearts for the first coming of Christ, fulfilling God’s salvation plan. Just as John announced the coming of the Lamb of God, we are called to live transformed lives, shaped by the Word of God, and to boldly declare the return of our King.
Reflect:
How has the Word of God transformed your life, and in what ways are you living as a testimony of His grace?
What steps can you take today to announce the coming of Christ—whether through sharing His truth, living in obedience, or demonstrating His love to others?
Write a prayer or commitment in response to how God is calling you to prepare the way for His return.
Prayer Response
Heavenly Father, thank You for revealing Jesus as the eternal Word, the Light that shines in the darkness, and the source of life. From the beginning, He was with You, and through Him, all things were created. I stand in awe of His power, His presence, and His love that draws me into a deeper relationship with You.
Lord, I acknowledge that apart from Christ, I was lost in darkness, but through Him, I have received the light of truth and the gift of salvation. Help me to live as a child of God, reflecting Your light in my words, actions, and love for others. Just as John the Baptist bore witness to Jesus, give me the boldness to testify to Your grace and truth.
Teach me to walk daily in the knowledge of who You are—Creator, Savior, and King. May my life be a testimony of Your goodness, and may I lead others into the light of Your presence. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.