Liz’s Morning Devotional based upon Upper Room
December 5, 2021
Read John 1:10-18
10 The light was in the world, and the world came into being through the light, but the world didn’t recognize the light. 11 The light came to his own people, and his own people didn’t welcome him. 12 But those who did welcome him, those who believed in his name, he authorized to become God’s children, 13 born not from blood nor from human desire or passion, but born from God. 14 The Word became flesh and made his home among us. We have seen his glory, glory like that of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth. 15 John testified about him, crying out, “This is the one of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me is greater than me because he existed before me.’” 16 From his fullness we have all received grace upon grace; 17 as the Law was given through Moses, so grace and truth came into being through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has ever seen God. God the only Son, who is at the Father’s side, has made God known.
Good Morning! From His fullness, we have all received grace upon grace!
Today is the second Sunday of Advent and we will light the candle of peace. Peace can seem very elusive, but maybe we don’t truly know what we seek. John speaks through imagery during the first few chapters of his book. To be filled with light is to know God. Those who do not know God are living in darkness. God sent Jesus so that the world would learn about grace and truth. Jesus is the light! All who call Him Lord, and Savior, have seen God’s glory and are filled with the hope that leads us through even our dreariest days.
When we accept Christ as we proclaim through our baptism, we are filled with the Holy Spirit. Through the Holy Spirit working within us, we are transformed into new beings for God’s new creation. Over time we learn to release our fears and anxiety to God. When we are no longer filled with these earthly worries, we are ready to fully appreciate God’s love and grace. This is the beginning of the transformation.
Children of God, children of hope called to live a life like Jesus. Jesus showed us how to serve, how to humble ourselves, and how to allow peace to enter our hearts, souls, and minds. As we mature into our faith, the peace of Christ will continue to grow until we are filled with overflowing love and joy. We must open ourselves fully to God’s love and grace. Advent is a time to prepare again for the arrival of Christ, a new chance to be renewed.
Creator God, Thank You for loving us. May we take time to experience the hope and peace that arrives in the form of a little baby. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: The birth of Christ Jesus renews my hope.
Seek the Peace of Christ! Pastor Liz
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