John 1:12
Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.
British families will travel an average of 302 miles this Christmas to visit family, friends and loved ones. And when some arrive, they won’t only get a door open, a welcome, an invitation inside - many will get hugs, kisses, even pile-ons!
In contrast to those who didn’t receive Jesus when He came, John now speaks in this verse of those who did welcome Him - and he describes the reception involving not just the best tablecloth and china.
But for those who did receive Him it was like grabbing hold of Jesus, claiming Him, letting Him right into the centre of their lives and not releasing their grip on Him.
However, it's not the strongest people, the most educated, or those who have their lives ‘together’ who are able to hold onto Jesus. It is those who believe in His name, those who take Him at His word and believe that Jesus is who He says He is. It’s that’s simple!
And when we do that He gives us a gift ... He gives us the right to become children of God! He gives us the authority to say:
“I belong to Jesus; I am his child”
No matter if we are enjoying the successes of life, we are facing its challenges or when we’re not sure what’s going on.
PROMPT: Listen to the song ‘What a Beautiful Name’ by Hillsong which draws its lyrical inspiration from John 1. Receive the power of Jesus’ name and what it means in your life afresh today.