The Word Made Flesh

John’s Gospel is distinct from the other three Synoptic Gospels who share a similar style and approach to telling of Jesus’ life on earth. We understand from historical records that John likely wrote his account several decades later than Matthew, Mark and Luke authored their accounts. No doubt, that time in between caused John to write from a different perspective, one that could incorporate the first 40-50 years of the birth and spread of Christianity after Jesus’ ascension.

John’s opening section focuses on the concept of lLogos, an ancient Greek philosophical idea that implies words have meaning beyond simply a combination of letters. Although Jesus is referred to as the Alpha and Omega in Revelation 21:6, alluding to Jesus being the beginning and the end, he is much more than that. Logos implies a far broader meaning than simply the translation into “word,” or capitalized “Word” as some English biblical versions denote it. First century readers of John’s Gospel would likely have had an understanding of the term that included preexistence. One current source explained it this way:
John appealed to his readers by saying in essence, "You've been thinking, talking, and writing about the Word for centuries and now I will tell you who He is." Thus John introduced Jesus in terms his audience understood, showing that Jesus is God.

Why is this significant? It adds a deep, deep layer of meaning that implies intentionality. In other words, this was God’s idea from the beginning because he loved humanity and desired to make it possible for people to live with him forever. This was always his plan because he is a loving Father whose plan at creation involved a redemption story.

That’s why the gospel is the greatest love story ever - from before time began God had a plan to rescue humanity from sin, using his own son to accomplish it. He thought it, planned it, executed it, accomplished it and now awaits the final act of a new heaven and earth with eager anticipation. There is no greater act of love than that.

Heavenly Father, when I consider earthly love, even the love I have for those dearest to me, I recognize that it pales in comparison to the love you demonstrated for me. Thank you for showing what true love looks like.

Throughout this day: When you next say the words, “I love you” to someone dear to you, ponder how your earthly love is but a poor shadow of what God’s love looks like.