Read
John 1:1-14; Hebrews 2:17-18; 4:14-16
The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.  John 1:14 (NIV)

Reflect
I have learned to be careful in the use of my words. When I want to express empathy I can say, “I understand” only if I have also experienced what the other person is talking about. When I have not experienced their struggle I say, “I think I understand.”

When someone truly understands and speaks kindness into my life, it is comforting to know that they do understand and do care.

The gospel means “good news,” and a major dimension of this is that Jesus understands us. He “gets it.” Jesus invites us to join him in his sending mission of love. He says, “As the Father has sent me, I am sending you” (John 20:21).

Jesus became one of us. He lived among us. He hung out in our neighbourhood. He experienced life fully and completely as we do. The reading in Hebrews 4 clearly states that Jesus was tempted in every way we are and yet was without sin. He “gets it” because he was one of us.

It is incredibly good news that God chose to reach us through his Son, Jesus, becoming a human being in every respect.

God dwelt in our neighbourhood to truly understand our struggle as followers of Jesus. Why do you think God has put you in your neighbourhood? Do you think that perhaps our dwelling in our neighbourhood can be good news for our neighbours?

Pray
Lord, thank you for walking with me through my life’s situations. Show me how to connect with others in my neighbourhood and to share your good news with them. Amen