The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. Yet 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 natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.

As a parent, I understand that children do not always receive the gifts I give them well. Sometimes with joy, as a small child, they will get a gift for their birthday, and then play with it for a few weeks, only to become bored with it. As children grow older, parents will try and give them different kinds of gifts: connections for college references, introductions for jobs, teaching them to work hard, to be honest, or to value and save money. These connections and disciplines can be gifts too, but many times teenagers want to try out life on their own and will ignore or seemingly go in the opposite direction when these gifts are given.

Jesus being born was a gift to mankind. A few recognized it — the wise men, the shepherds, Elizabeth, Simeon — and they praised God and worshipped him. Most did not recognize him or receive him. He was a true light, and this light, if followed, gives life to all. But many would choose not to follow him, just like today. For the few that did follow, and do follow today, Jesus gives the right to be born of God and become his children. This is what it means to be “born again”. Jesus talks more about this in John 3. So how will I choose to receive God’s Gift — the light of Jesus — today? Will I allow it to breathe life into my weary bones? Lord, teach me to receive your good gifts each day. May your life be in my heart and teach me to shine it into the lives of others.