Jul 26, 2020
Scripture Reading John 1:4-9
In this section of his prologue (Jn 1:1-18), John continues to describe the nature of the Son of God. Here, using simple words that he will use frequently in this gospel, John declares that Jesus is 'life' and 'light.'
Whereas it is true that all life in the material world (plant life, animal life, human life) issues from the Son who created all things (Jn 1:3), John probably has in mind, at least primarily, eternal life when he says, "In him was life" in John 1:4. In this gospel, John usually refers to the everlasting life God gives when he uses the word 'life' (cf. Jn 5:24; 8:12). So it is the quality of divine life that is in view here.
What issues from Christ's life is light for all to see. The light of Christ is the truth that guides someone through earthly days, and leads to the presence of God in heaven.
One implication of this wonderful reality is that it is possible for someone to have physical life, but not spiritual life. Such people are the 'walking dead.' Having closed their eyes to the truth they spend the whole of their lives living in the darkness of the deception of sin … and loving this darkness (cf. Jn 3:19).
The light which is in Christ and which enlightens the world, shines through the general revelation of creation and providence … through the Biblical record … and through the lives of His followers. To herald the coming of the eternal Word, God sent a man … John the Baptist (Jn 1:6-8). God could have proclaimed the truth about His Son through angels, or by giving speech to the wind. Instead, He has committed the proclamation of His gospel to people … John the Baptist … and us.