Light of the World
To reflect God’s heart to the world around us, we need to know God’s heart and, we believe, God’s heart is most clearly represented in Jesus. In the weeks leading up to Easter, we invite you to explore the life of Jesus by reading the Gospel of John with us. As we delve into the richness of scripture, we’ll utilize the ancient practice of Lectio Divina, which invites us to slow down and posture our hearts to hear from God. With that said, let’s begin with a prayer:
Open your time by reciting these words:
Lord, as I approach scripture, prepare my heart to encounter You in its pages. Quiet the distractions that pull me away and open my eyes to see Your truth. May I encounter these words humbly, with an open mind and a receptive spirit. May my time in Scripture be a sacred encounter that deepens my relationship with You and transforms me into the image of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Lectio (Reading)
Take a moment to read John 1:1-18 slowly and attentively. As you read, pay attention to any words or phrases that stand out to you. Allow the text to wash over you, inviting the Holy Spirit to speak to your heart.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him, nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. John 1:1-5 (NIV)
Meditatio (Meditation)
In these opening verses of the Gospel of John, we are presented with a profound truth that has the power to transform our lives: Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh, is the light of the world. Just as light dispels darkness, Jesus illuminates the dark corners of our hearts and minds, bringing clarity, hope, and purpose.
Jesus brought life into being. That life? It's like a bright light shining in the middle of a dark room. And guess what? No matter how dark it gets, that light never goes out. Imagine this: You're stumbling around in the pitch-black darkness, not sure which way to go. Suddenly, a light turns on, and you can see clearly.
But the light of Christ is not merely a passive illumination; it is an active force that pushes back against the darkness. It confronts the lies and falsehoods that threaten to entangle us, offering freedom and redemption to all who believe. As we surrender to His light, we find healing for our brokenness and restoration for our souls.
That's what Jesus does for us. In a world full of confusion and uncertainty, He brings clarity. His light reveals the truth about who we are and who God is, inviting us into a deeper relationship with Him. When life gets tough, and we feel like giving up, He gives us hope. Even when we're feeling weak, He gives us strength and guides us through the shadows.
Take a moment to reflect on the words you have read. Ponder the significance of how the Word was made flesh (Jesus) and dwelt among us, and brought light to the darkness. As you meditate on these truths, allow yourself to marvel at the wonder of God's love revealed through His Son.
Contemplatio (Contemplation)
Despite the power and brilliance of His light, we often prefer the comfort of our own shadows to the transformative grace of God. Even in the face of such resistance, the light of Christ continues to shine, a beacon of hope for all who are lost and searching.
Take a moment to consider the places of your heart where you are resistant to embrace Christ’s light. Share those places with God while embracing the forgiveness Christ provides.
Actio (Action)
As followers of Jesus, we are called to reflect His light in a world desperately in need of illumination. Through our words and actions, may we point others to the source of true life and light, so that they, too, may experience the fullness of God's love and salvation. As we navigate through the ups and downs of life, let's keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, allowing His light to guide us forward. In Jesus, we find everything we need—He is the living expression of God's love, so let's embrace His light and let it shine brightly for all to see.
Take a moment to consider how you can bring a bit of light into the world of others today.
Oratio (Prayer)
Close your time by reciting this prayer or lifting up your own:
Heavenly Father, thank you for the revelation of scripture, which illuminates our path and guides our hearts. We are grateful for the precious gift of your Son, Jesus Christ, who shines as the beacon of hope in our lives, offering eternal light and life. In humility, we confess our doubts and fears, trusting in your infinite wisdom and grace to strengthen our faith. Grant us the courage to be vessels of your light, reflecting Christ's love and truth in all we do, so that others may be drawn closer to you through our witness. Amen.