Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Today’s Reading  |  Hebrews 1:1–4
Long ago God spoke to our ancestors in many and various ways by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by a Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, through whom he also created the worlds. He is the reflection of God’s glory and the exact imprint of God’s very being, and he sustains all things by his powerful word. When he had made purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs. (NRSV)

Reflection
This passage reminds me of Caesarea Philippi, where Jesus asked his disciples, “Who do men say that the Son of God is?” They answered, “Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets” (Matthew 16: 13–14). It evokes in my imagination the long line of Hebrew prophets marching across the pages of biblical history—Samuel and Nathan, Daniel, Isaiah, Ezekiel, Hosea, Micah, and yes, Elijah and Jeremiah. And the question Jesus poses to his disciples at Caesarea Philippi is a question mortals have been asking through the ages and one that is appropriate to ask again as we await the celebration of the birth of Christ: Who is this little child born in a manger? Who is the Son of God.

It is, of course, Peter who, when pressed by Jesus with “But who do you say that I am?” replies, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” This, it seems to me, is the answer the writer of Hebrews elaborates upon. Jesus is not one more prophet. Each passage describes Christ’s status as God’s Son, distinguishing him from the prophets. He is the “heir of all things,” suggesting that Christ was part of God’s plan from the very beginning of the creation. And the line which most leaps out at me at this Christmastide is verse 3 which states, “He reflects the glory of God and bears the very stamp of his nature.” That word reflects resonates with me in this season of light. Jesus is the light of the world. He reflects the love, the grace, the power, the mercy, and the compassion of God. Verse 4 points out that Christ is above the angels. The prophets and angels have their place in the foretelling of Christ’s coming, but Jesus is the ultimate revelation of God’s glory.

Prayer
Help me, O God, to be ever mindful of the true light of Christmas, and as your Son reflects your love for me, allow me to reflect that light to others in my life and service. Amen.

Written by Claudia Boatright, Member of Fourth Presbyterian Church

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

Devotion index by date | I’d like to receive daily devotions by email