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PRAYER FOR TODAY
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Monday August 26 - Jesus: Maker of the universe
In these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir
of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. Hebrews 1:2
Today’s text declares Jesus to be the creator of the universe. John’s gospel triumphantly introduces Jesus in this manner: ‘In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made’ (John 1:1-3). This is reiterated in Colossians 1:16: “For by him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth... all things have been created through him and for him.’
God alone is uncreated, neither formed by deity nor constructed by man-made theology; put simply, he is the great “I Am”! Jesus was much more than a great prophet and teacher; he is co-creator of the universe; fully God, and yet fully man. In this way, and this way only, he is both the Son of God and, sacrificially, the Saviour of mankind.
In his humanity Jesus fully understands us, but as God he has the power and authority to work sovereignly in every surrendered life. I never cease to be touched by Graham Kendrick’s poetic words in his song ‘The Servant King’: ‘Hands that flung stars into space to cruel nails surrendered. This is our God...’ Today let’s join with Jesus’ disciple Thomas in declaring, “Jesus, you are my Lord and my God!” (John 20:28).
Heavenly Father, I thank you that I was created by you, and for you. I want to live in honour of your holy Name. Amen.
Tues August 27 - Jesus: The radiance of God’s glory
The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being... Hebrews 1:3
The book of Hebrews introduces Jesus as the Word made flesh and Maker of the universe. Today’s verse goes on to describe Jesus as ‘the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being.’ From the outset, the writer’s intent is to show Christ as supreme so that persecuted Christians would remain true to the faith, in the face of severe and persistent opposition. Today’s verse declares Christ’s nature as identical to that of God; that is, Christ is divine. The word for ‘representation’ can be translated ‘exact imprint’. Just as your fingerprint uniquely identifies you, Jesus’ ‘character imprint’ undeniably confirms him as God.
Throughout the Old Testament, God makes it clear that he will not allow his glory to be shared with another (Isaiah 42:8); yet John 1:14 tells us, ‘We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son...’ The only way to reconcile these verses is for Jesus to be divine, bearing both the essence and glory of God.
Dear friend, what does this mean for us, living as we do in a largely godless and hedonistic society? It means that, because Jesus is divine, I can confidently follow the path he sets for me – he is my Way. I can trust his every word – he is my Truth. And I can depend upon his Spirit - he is my Life.
Heavenly Father, Pilate declared, “Behold the man!” (John 19:5). With joy I confess, “Behold the Son of God, my way, my truth and my life!” Hallelujah! Amen.
PRAYER FOR TODAY