WEDNESDAY

1 John 1:1-2:2

One of the most amazing things about the good news is that Jesus meets us where we are. But even more, he does not leave us there. Following implies movement. So the question is, where is Jesus taking us? Within the amazingly beautiful diversity that makes up “every nation, tribe, language, and people,” what is the common journey and destination that we share? As we continue to listen to Scripture, one of the central themes that emerges is that God is less invested in creating uniformity in customs, national identities, or cultural expressions, but rather in changing hearts and lives. Circumcision, as a way of distinguishing the Jewish community from all Gentile others, gives way to baptism—a way of inviting all others to identify with Jesus and live out the life of the Kingdom. Baptism is a way of life that is focused on loving others as we have been loved by God. Keeping this as the central focus, and setting aside those things that hinder it, is what we are invited to embrace as we follow Jesus. It does not mean that we are perfect, or that we always get it right, but that we are committed to that path. The passage today reflects one of the guiding landmarks that we reference as we travel. Having just talked about how Jesus is central and how we are invited to walk in the light, John goes on to give this glimpse of what this looks like. Take a few moments to read it again and reflect on the following questions:

• As you listen to how John describes what the message we have to share is all about, and who it is centered in, what parts of this do you resonate with the most?

• How would you describe what it means to walk in the light?

• How do you feel about the way John balances our inherent faultiness with the way of life to which we are committed? How do you hear this being captured in the phrase, “My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin, but if you do, Jesus speaks in your defense before the Father”? [NOTE: It does not say that Jesus is defending you from the Father, but rather that when accusations are brought before the Father about you, Jesus is there to defend you. Jesus and the Father are of one mind and heart.]

• What speaks to you the most powerfully here as you reflect on the way of life that Jesus is inviting us to embrace?

Take a few moments to share what is on your mind and heart with God in prayer.