In the Beginning

Many of the classic works of literature begin with a memorable line. A few I like:

“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times …” A Tale of Two Cities, Charles Dickens

“There was a boy called Eustace Clarence Scrubb, and he almost deserved it.” The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, C. S. Lewis.

“Marley was dead, to begin with.” A Christmas Carol, Charles Dickens

And of course …

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” Genesis

The apostle John begins his gospel in the same way …

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. John 1:1

This Word is not like our words, for this Word has the power to accomplish what it commands and what it promises. When this Word says, “Let there be light” we immediately read “there was light.”

This Word is truth. Our belief or disbelief has no bearing on it. It simply remains as it has always been and always will be: the whole truth. This truth shines a light into our darkness.

This Word sets us free. We find ourselves born into slavery –  a slavery we inherited and a slavery of our own making. But the Word sets captives free by announcing the arrival of a new kingdom. In this kingdom, the weak are made strong, the hurting are healed, the lost are found, the deaf hear and the blind see, and forgiveness of sins is preached to the whole world.

This Word is alive. The printed page cannot capture it. It speaks today as loudly and clearly as when it was first spoken. Much noise in our world makes hearing a challenge, but the Word is present, speaking forgiveness and life. It’s this Word I want to hear and receive. It’s this Word that transforms hearts, relationships, and eternity.