"Brief Devotions For Busy Lives" By Rev. Dr. Mary B. Johnson: John 1:16-17

 December 28

​".... And from his fullness have we all received, grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ." -John 1:16-17

​Have you ever had a bad experience with the law? Many of us have and it can lead a bad taste in our mouths. Some have been pulled over by the police for unfair or unjustified reasons. Or it may have been a parking ticket that was undeserved. Yet laws are necessary for the greater good of society and a stable safe culture. The "Law" in Israel was the same as the laws given by Moses. Yet it had become a complex, demanding, detailed legal code that few could adhere to all the time. Most people broke it at one time or another and prayed they would not be caught and punished. The Advent of the Messiah changed all of this when Jesus began preaching and healing even on the Sabbath. It was illegal to work on the Sabbath in Judea and the Pharisees accused him of breaking the law and tried to bring charges against him, yet they weren't successful. Jesus brought balance into our world and showed the importance of Grace, Mercy, and Truth. He returned the Law to its proper perspective. He taught us to look at intent and purpose of laws and not just their legalistic oppressive interpretations. Fair laws aren't inherently bad things. We all need laws to ensure justice.

​Yet John reminds us in today's text that Law and Grace are combinations of God's "unfailing love and faithfulness." Both are aspects of God's nature he uses to protect and guide you. Moses emphasized God's law and justice, while Jesus Christ came to reflect God's mercy, love, faithfulness, and forgiveness. Moses could only be the giver of the law, while Christ's Advent into our world is to fulfill the law. (Mt.5:17) Only part of God's nature was revealed in the Law. The fullness of God's nature is now revealed in Jesus Christ. Rather than being frozen on cold stone tablets, God's complete nature is revealed through Christ. As you know Jesus better, your understanding of God will not only increase but your trust and love can expand because He is with you at all times protecting, loving, and bringing you both comfort and truth.

​Prayer: Lord, Free me from legalism with your love. Amen.

​Meditation For The Day: Grace and Truth are greater than laws.

​Brief Devotions For Busy Lives: Daily Winter Renewal Paperback – November 25, 2017, by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson (Author)