Day 265 - John 1–3 Psalm 69

Let’s learn a little about John before we begin. John was one of the twelve disciples and part of Jesus’ closest circle along with Peter and James. He often calls himself: the disciple whom Jesus loved, not to boast, but to show the personal side of his friendship with Jesus. John and his brother James were fishermen before Jesus called them.

John wrote the Gospel of John, three letters (1, 2 and 3 John) and the book of Revelation. His Gospel is different from Matthew, Mark, and Luke. While they focus more on facts and teachings, John focuses on showing who Jesus is. It includes long conversations, miraculous signs, and deep reflections that help us see the heart of Jesus.

John lived longer than the other apostles. Church history says that he spent his last years caring for believers and writing the visions that God gave him. Through his writings, John reminds us that Jesus is not only powerful, but deeply personal.

In John 1, John begins by showing that Jesus has always been with God and that He is the Word that gives life and light. John the Baptist points to Him as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. Jesus begins to call His disciples, inviting them to follow Him. This chapter reminds us that Jesus was not just a man, He is God made human to draw us near to Him.

In John 2, at a wedding in Cana, Jesus turns water into wine, His first miracle, showing His power and kindness. Later, He cleanses the temple because people had turned worship into business. His actions reveal that true worship is honoring God. The disciples begin to see His glory and authority.

In John 3, Jesus talks with Nicodemus. He explains that no one can see the kingdom of God without being born again by the Spirit. Jesus says that God’s love is so great that He gave His Son to bring eternal life to those who believe in Him. John the Baptist also reminds everyone that his role is to point to Jesus.

John 3:16 is considered the most famous verse in the Bible: "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life."

Psalm 69 is a cry for help in the midst of suffering. The writer feels overwhelmed and hated, but he trusts that God sees him and will save him.