An ABC of Faith

God - Today, part of one verse comes to mind - “the Word was God”. John 1:1

John’s introduction is a powerful opening to his Gospel, a type of musical overture with trumpets and drums, anticipating the major themes that will recur throughout the story of Jesus. Why not  consider reading it out loud, then come back and dwell on one sentence or phrase that resonates with me.

In the first verse we find the phrase, “The Word was God” – this is the central truth about Jesus in the Gospels. In one word, the only Son who is close to the Father’s heart has made him known. We later read, “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father” (John 14:9). To all who believe in his name, he gives power to become children of God. Then we have Thomas’ declaration of faith in the Risen Lord, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28) – the climax to John’s Gospel.

It was N T Wright who said, “God is the one who satisfies the passion for justice, the longing for spirituality, the hunger for relationship, the yearning for beauty. And God, the true God, is the God we see in Jesus of Nazareth, Israel's Messiah, the world's true Lord.”

We thank God for the voice of John. Through his words and images, through the rhythm of his language and the depth of his thoughts, we glimpse the magnificence of God. God is the beginning, the power behind creation, the irresistible dawn which overcomes the darkness of our world.

A Prayer

Lord, we ponder the awesome mystery that you, God of eternal glory, decide to be united with us. As your daughters and sons, may we begin to understand today that we can help to fulfil your creative designs for the world and for ourselves. Let us give ourselves over to you, as you give yourself over to us. Amen