Relating with God

“So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness.

And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only son.” John 1:14

I have heard a comment from many people over the past couple of weeks, maybe you have too. “I sure hope that 2022 is much better than 2021.” Sometimes I ask the person what they hope will be different? Most of the time they just offer their comment without asking. I am not looking for a discussion or a debate on this subject, everyone has their views. However, the common theme of relief is in the voices of everyone; so allow me to say, Yes the coming year of 2022 will bring much relief.

Are you still with me? Some of you are probably thinking, how can this guy make such a bold assumption? Have I dealt out some cards to see the future? No. Am I looking at a crystal ball to look beyond the obvious? No, I don’t have one of those either. Have I received a message of revelation that no one else has heard? You are getting closer, but this revelation has been known for everyone to hear and read for the past couple of centuries. It is in the first 14 verses of John’s gospel.

For the Apostle John, these first few verses are his version of the Creation story. Not the creation of the world, you can read that in the Book of Genesis; but the creation of God’s relationship with his people. Through God’s love, he decided to make his presence known in the world differently than before. No longer do people have to second guess to know what God is doing in the world. Since time began the situations of the world have been just as trying as we have experienced the last couple of years, if not worse. But there is one difference now, God is spiritually with us in a physical way.

The word that John speaks about, that has become human, is Jesus. God came to all people in this form, so we can understand the depth of God’s love for us all. I underline us all because it is for everyone. People who believe and have accepted Jesus into their hearts. People who refuse to believe. People who profess that there is no God. People who have not ever heard the Gospel message, God loves. Through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, those who accept are pulled from the outskirts of life into the compassionate heart of God. For those who haven’t accepted yet, the invitation is constantly open. For those who refuse or know there is no God, the door remains open.

This leads me back to my bold statement that 2022 will be much better, than the previous years. Because we know that God is present in everything we do. God is working in the background to right the wrongs of people. He is in the form of Jesus who we can relate to because Jesus relates to God. Even if the coming year is not what anyone expects, God’s presence is with us always.

Dear Lord, these past couple of years have really been tough. But since knowing you are with me, I am looking for a blessed year in your presence. Continue to guide everyone in the ways you desire us to go. Amen.