October 23: Build your life on this

 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. All things were created through Him, and apart from Him not one thing was created that has been created. Life was in Him, and that life was the light of men. That light shines in the darkness, yet the darkness did not overcome it… The true light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world… The Word became flesh and took up residence among us. We observed His glory, the glory as the One and Only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.  (John 1:1-5,9,14 — Holman Christian Standard Bible)

An important title of the Lord Jesus Christ is "The Word". In the original Greek of the New Testament, it is "logos". This is not the ordinary term for "word", but a special term used by the Greeks and Jews of that time to refer to the source of all order and power in the universe. Guided by the Holy Spirit, John refers to Jesus as the "Logos". He is the Source of all things, the Creator of the universe, the Giver of life and light, and the Savior of the world.

The "Logos" was with God the Father from the very beginning — just as God the Father is eternal, has no beginning and no end, so is Jesus. He is God the Son. "Son of God" is one more title of Jesus, but should not be understood to imply that He is a created being. "Son" refers to His close relationship with the Father, just as "Firstborn” communicates His exalted position of authority. By the way, King David, Israel, and present day believers are also referred to as the firstborn of God… as people with exalted positions.

The gospel of John was the last gospel to be written, and unlike the other three, is not so much a retelling of Jesus’ life as it is a powerful statement of His godliness. Every chapter presents evidence — actions or words — of His divine nature and authority. Like we see in the first chapter (today’s passage) John’s message is that Jesus is God, nothing was created apart from Him, He brings life and light, His light cannot be overcome by the darkness of Satan, demons, or the problems of life, and that eternal salvation comes through Him. 

What could be more important? These concepts need to form the base of our lives and faith. Think about them, reread this passage, spend time meditating on it, and let it strengthen the inner core of your life.