December 24 - My Father, Your Father

 Read today’s texts first: John 19-21

 MAXIMize YOUR DAY

The life of Jesus ends much like it began -
humble, quiet, selfless and intensely personal.

It was appropriate to read the end of John’s gospel the day before Christmas. Remembering the end of the gospel story while we celebrate the beginning makes everything more significant. The life of Jesus ends much like it began - humble, quiet, selfless and intensely personal.

While He came to earth to bring peace and joy to the entire world, we see personal attention given to Mary, Joseph, Elizabeth, Simeon, Anna and the magi. As we read of His death and resurrection, with its shattering impact on the earth, in hell, and throughout the heavens, John brings out Christ’s intimate one-to-one encounters once again.

Even in the middle of His agony while hanging on the cross, Jesus looked down and saw His mother and John. Joseph must have died early on, and Jesus, the eldest son, felt an obligation to care for His aging mother. He took the time to pass on that care to John (19:26,27) just before His death, with My Mother, “behold your son.”

After His resurrection He shared personal moments with some of His closest friends. His first was with Mary Magdalene in the garden.  Because her checkered past had kept her from belonging anywhere, He assured her that His Father was now her Father, His God was her God (20:17). Thomas, the natural skeptic, was invited to touch His scars (20:24-28). Peter, wracked with guilt over his three denials, was offered three opportunities to declare his love (21:15-17). John himself, was given hope that he would escape martyrdom (21:22,23).  All of the disciples were born again and filled with His Spirit as Jesus literally breathed new life into them (20:21-23).

“Lord, Your personal encounters with Your followers continue today. Thank You for loving me and speaking personally to me today.”