The Word Became Flesh
John 1:14
"And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth."
- John 1:14 (NKJV)
In this profound declaration, the Apostle John encapsulates the mystery and majesty of the Incarnation—the moment when the eternal Word became tangible, dwelling among humanity. The glory revealed in this act is the glory of the only begotten, full of grace and truth.
"The Word became flesh." This succinct statement carries the weight of eternity. The eternal, uncreated Word, who existed with God and was God, took on human form. The Creator entered into His creation, veiling His divine glory in the fragile shell of humanity.
The implications of the Incarnation are staggering. The divine didn't remain aloof or distant; instead, it "dwelt among us." Jesus entered into the messiness of human existence, sharing in our joys, sorrows, and struggles. The Almighty chose to be with us intimately.
John declares, "we beheld His glory." The disciples witnessed the glory of God incarnate in the person of Jesus. His glory wasn't displayed in earthly majesty but in humility, compassion, and sacrificial love. It was a glory that touched the broken, healed the sick, and welcomed the outcast.
Jesus is not just a great teacher or a wise prophet; He is the "only begotten of the Father." This title speaks to His unique and exclusive relationship with the Father. In Jesus, the fullness of God dwells bodily, making Him the definitive revelation of the Father.
The essence of Jesus' glory is described as being "full of grace and truth." His grace is boundless, extending to the undeserving. His truth is unwavering, providing a solid foundation in a world of shifting sands. Together, grace and truth form the bedrock of His redemptive work.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we adore You for the mystery and majesty of the Incarnation, where the Word became flesh. Thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus, who dwelt among us, revealing Your glory full of grace and truth. May we, like the disciples, behold His glory and be transformed by the wonder of Your redeeming love. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
May this devotional inspire you to reflect on the awe-inspiring reality of the Incarnation and draw you into a deeper appreciation of the grace and truth embodied in Jesus Christ.