Epiphany: “…He gave the right to become children of God”

John 1:9-12

Through January 6, 2023 (Epiphany) I’ll be posting devotionals with a Christmas and Epiphany theme.

“The one who is the true light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. He came into the very world he created, but the world didn’t recognize him. He came to his own people, and even they rejected him. But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God.”

‭‭John‬ ‭1‬:‭9‬-‭12‬ ‭NLT‬‬

In this rather dark and dreary time of year, the theme of Jesus as the true light found in the Gospel of John is a cheerful thought! That’s one of the reasons Barb and I are both currently writing devotionals based on this Gospel. Just before these verses, the Apostle John describes how John the Baptist was sent by God to “tell about the light” (John 1:7). The four verses quoted here sum up Christianity quite well:

• Jesus was coming into the world

• He came into the world He created (as the triune God) and wasn’t recognized by His creation

• His people (the Hebrew people of historical Israel and Judah) rejected Him and His message

• All who believe in Him and accept him have the right to become children of God

I think that’s why my outlook on life has become so positive as I’ve aged. Knowing that you are considered by the Creator of the universe to be His child and that you are loved by Him? Who can be depressed for long knowing this truth?!

---

Heaven On Wheels Daily Prayer:

Father, I thank You for placing Your gift of the Holy Spirit of light into our hearts to lead, direct, govern, and train us. Teach me to walk in the light of Your truth and love, and make the beauty of Christ shine through me to others so that they may also believe in and accept Him as their Savior. This I ask in Jesus’ name, AMEN.