December 20 — John 1:10–13

He was in the world, and though the world was made through Him, the world did not recognize Him. He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. But to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God—children born not of blood, nor of the desire or will of man, but born of God.
— John 1:10–13


John’s Gospel presents a profound mystery at the heart of Advent: the Creator entered His creation, yet many did not recognize Him. The One who shaped the world with His hands walked unnoticed through the streets He formed. Even His own people—those who longed for the Messiah—struggled to receive the One who came to save them. Advent invites us to examine our own hearts with humility. Have we recognized Christ’s presence in the ordinary? Have we received Him not only with our words, but with our lives? Or have distractions, expectations, and worries kept us from seeing Him clearly?

Yet John’s words also shine with incredible hope: “To all who did receive Him… He gave the right to become children of God.” Receiving Christ is far more than acknowledging His existence; it is trusting Him, belonging to Him, and allowing His life to reshape ours. Through Jesus, we are not merely forgiven—we are adopted. We are welcomed into God’s family, given a new identity rooted not in performance, heritage, or human effort but in grace. Advent reminds us that the heart of God’s coming is relational. Christ enters the world so that we might enter into the life of God.

As you reflect on this passage, ponder these questions: Where in your life do you struggle to “recognize” Christ’s presence? What expectations or distractions make it difficult to receive Him fully? How does your identity as a child of God shape your confidence, your decisions, and your sense of belonging? And what might it look like today to receive Christ not only with belief but with openness, surrender, and trust?

For today’s practice, place your hand over your heart and pray, “Lord Jesus, I receive You again today.” Let these words be simple and sincere. Then take a moment to reflect on what it means to be God’s child—loved, cherished, forgiven, and welcomed. Carry that identity with you throughout the day, and, if possible, offer a small act of welcome to someone else: a warm greeting, a moment of attention, or an expression of hospitality that reflects the heart of God.


Heavenly Father, 

Thank You for sending Jesus so that I might become Your child. Help me to recognize His presence, receive Him with my whole heart, and live each day in the confidence of Your love. Let my life reflect the grace and welcome You have shown to me. 

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

-

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