The Word, the Light

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and life was the light of all people.

The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world…..But to all who received him, who believe in his name, he gave power to become children of God. And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth.

(John testified to him and cried out, “This was he of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me ranks ahead of me because he was before me'”). From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. The law indeed was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God. It is God the only Son, who is close to the Father’s heart, who has made him known. (John 1:1-18).

These passages lay out the coming of Jesus Christ. God did not idly look upon the crumbling world and not do anything. No, he sent His only Son. “The Word in the flesh is God’s action”(Dr. Norma Cook-Everist). Yes, God took action to save our world. In the same manner, we take action in today’s world to ensure that the Light will shine even stronger. As God’s children, we are called to do this.

Today we celebrate Epiphany, the day that the Magi found the Christ child. They found the Light of the world. They acted. What did Martin Luther do to act in this world? He posted his 95 Theses for all to see. God does not want us to stand idly by as we watch the atrocities around us. Faith means action, also. Where the need is great, we are called to act; in Jesus’ name, through our gifts and talents. Where one person may be a great orator, another may be a terrific knitter. All of these gifts and actions are great in the eyes of the Maker and his Son. Let us share our talents this year in a more peaceful, beautiful way.

Have a wonderful Epiphany! Be ready to meet Christ!!!