John 1:1-5
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 everything was made, and without him not one thing was made that has been made. In him was life, and the life was the light of mankind. The light is shining in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
Dear Lord Jesus,
We thank you for being our Savior and Creator; we all have life through you. You were with the Father and the Holy Spirit, giving life into all the world. John is clear that everything we see around us was made through you. You also restored life to the world when we fell from your grace into sin. Our sin separated us from you, bringing us into the darkness, and as the source of life, you knew what had to be done to return us to the light. So you came to earth becoming part of your created world and lived your life without sin according to the perfection required of us. Then you willingly gave up your life to sinful men who beat and punished you for our sins. Then on the cross, you gave up your life, taking all our sins into yourself so that you paid the death required for sin in full and abundance. You brought the light of hope and peace into this fallen world. You overcame the darkness of sin by your grace, love, and mercy. This gift is ours through faith in you—faith the Holy Spirit began in us through your Word and sacraments. So by believing that you have forgiven our sins and paid sin’s price, we are restored to the light of the world your love for us. When we were unlovable, you came demonstrating your love for us. Let us be encouraged by your example of love to share our hope in you with those who do not know you. So they, too, will trust in the light of the world; through faith in you, be restored to life. Amen.
Written through Pastor Roger Emmons
One who creates or builds something knows its intricacies to restore it. Jesus came returning the light to a sin-darkened world, giving us eternal life and salvation.