The Daily Office for January 17, 2012
Scriptures
Psalm 26
Genesis 9:1-17
Hebrews 5:7-14
John 3:16-21
Reading (John 3:16-21)
Reflection
The entire message of the Gospel can be found in the 16th verse of John. Here the love of God is clearly shown: (1) The source of love — God. (2) The extent of love — the world. (3) The sacrifice of love — God gave his only Son. (4) The results of love — whoever believes in him will have eternal life. Condemnation is reserved only for those who reject Christ and the salvation he freely offers. Yet, sadly, the light of Christ is rejected by a world darkened in sin. Many turn from the light of Christ's love because they don't want their words and deeds exposed. By embracing the saving light of Jesus we show that our works are blessed by God and that we are in happy obedience to his will.
Collect of the Day
Most gracious God, who called your servant Antony to sell all that he had and to serve you in the solitude of the desert: by his example may we learn to deny ourselves and to love you before all things; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.