Christmas: John 1:1-14

“The opening words of the gospel of John are quite possibly the most important words ever written. In this passage, there is new birth and new creation. God invites us to dwell here, with each reading expanding our wonder, our imaginations and our hearts. And what is most breathtaking? That we can get the front row experience of God’s love, a love so intense that he writes himself into our story. God becomes human and moves into the neighborhood."

Passage: John 1:1-14

Respond:

• One way we can lose sight of meaning is through familiarity, we can become so accustomed to the words that we fail to hear them. As you come to the text this week, read it slowly. What phrases and truths does the Spirit invite you to dwell on?

• The first words of John 1 echo the first words of Genesis, virtually all scholars agree that this is very intentional. John is writing a new creation story - what new reality is being birthed in this prologue?

• When God “made his dwelling” among us, it is no longer like the understanding of tabernacle or temple; God’s presence has no boundaries. What are the implications of a God who moves into our neighborhood? A God who shows up unannounced? Who is with us when we run errands? When we brace ourselves for hard news? Whose presence we should emulate?