John 1:1–18
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. – John 1:1
Click to read passage
These two weeks mark FMC’s Missions Sunday, with the theme “Be the Light.” When we think about shining light, we easily think of doing more, sharing the gospel more, serving more, so that others can see Christ in us. But John brings our eyes back to something more foundational. Jesus himself is the true light.
“The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world” (verse 9). Jesus did not come merely to solve our problems or give us a better life. He came into a dark world to reveal God, so that people could know God and receive life in his light.
The passage speaks of light again and again. He is “the light of all people” (verse 4). “The light shines in the darkness” (verse 5). He is the true light (verse 9). And he reveals the Father’s “glory” (verse 14). This light points us to life, hope, direction, and the presence of God. Darkness is real, but it cannot overcome the light.
This is also the deepest foundation of missions. The church is not called to create its own light. We are called to bring the light of Christ to others. We cannot change every life or solve every problem in society. But we can faithfully bring people to Jesus.
Hudson Taylor is a good example of this. In the nineteenth century, he went to China not simply to bring the gospel to the Chinese people, but to enter into their lives. He learned the language, wore Chinese clothing, and lived among them. He understood deeply that missions is not about making others become like us. It is about drawing near to people, so that they have the opportunity to see Christ.
John the Baptist is also a good example. He knew clearly that he was not the light, but was sent to testify to the light (verse 8). A true witness does not draw attention to himself. He points others, through himself, to see Christ.
Verse 14 moves us deeply. “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” God did not remain far away in heaven, calling out to people from a distance. He entered our world himself and lived among us. This reminds us that shining for the Lord does not have to begin with something great. Often it happens in the ordinary moments of life. One more word of concern. One more act of listening. One more moment of acceptance. Living out grace and truth among our neighbours, colleagues, family, and friends.
FMC has a long and rich history. Our hope in shining for the Lord is not to show how capable our church is. It is that our community, the next generation, and those who do not yet know God, would see the grace and truth of Jesus in us.
May the light of Christ shine through us into the darkness of others.
Reflection:
Is there someone in my life today who needs to see the light of Jesus through my words, actions, or care?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank you that you are the true light who has come into our lives. Help me not to put myself at the centre, but to let your light shine through me to those around me. Give me a heart that is willing to draw near to people, to care for them, and to bear witness to you, so that I may shine for you in my life each day. Amen.
Click to read passage
These two weeks mark FMC’s Missions Sunday, with the theme “Be the Light.” When we think about shining light, we easily think of doing more, sharing the gospel more, serving more, so that others can see Christ in us. But John brings our eyes back to something more foundational. Jesus himself is the true light.
“The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world” (verse 9). Jesus did not come merely to solve our problems or give us a better life. He came into a dark world to reveal God, so that people could know God and receive life in his light.
The passage speaks of light again and again. He is “the light of all people” (verse 4). “The light shines in the darkness” (verse 5). He is the true light (verse 9). And he reveals the Father’s “glory” (verse 14). This light points us to life, hope, direction, and the presence of God. Darkness is real, but it cannot overcome the light.
This is also the deepest foundation of missions. The church is not called to create its own light. We are called to bring the light of Christ to others. We cannot change every life or solve every problem in society. But we can faithfully bring people to Jesus.
Hudson Taylor is a good example of this. In the nineteenth century, he went to China not simply to bring the gospel to the Chinese people, but to enter into their lives. He learned the language, wore Chinese clothing, and lived among them. He understood deeply that missions is not about making others become like us. It is about drawing near to people, so that they have the opportunity to see Christ.
John the Baptist is also a good example. He knew clearly that he was not the light, but was sent to testify to the light (verse 8). A true witness does not draw attention to himself. He points others, through himself, to see Christ.
Verse 14 moves us deeply. “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” God did not remain far away in heaven, calling out to people from a distance. He entered our world himself and lived among us. This reminds us that shining for the Lord does not have to begin with something great. Often it happens in the ordinary moments of life. One more word of concern. One more act of listening. One more moment of acceptance. Living out grace and truth among our neighbours, colleagues, family, and friends.
FMC has a long and rich history. Our hope in shining for the Lord is not to show how capable our church is. It is that our community, the next generation, and those who do not yet know God, would see the grace and truth of Jesus in us.
May the light of Christ shine through us into the darkness of others.
Reflection:
Is there someone in my life today who needs to see the light of Jesus through my words, actions, or care?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank you that you are the true light who has come into our lives. Help me not to put myself at the centre, but to let your light shine through me to those around me. Give me a heart that is willing to draw near to people, to care for them, and to bear witness to you, so that I may shine for you in my life each day. Amen.