Preparing for January 4, 2026 (Second Sunday After Christmas)
Series: The Chase — Searching for What’s Real (Week 1)
The Short of it
God’s light doesn’t just comfort us—it orients us. When life feels foggy, faith isn’t about pretending we can see the whole path. It’s about letting God gather us, bless us, and guide us one faithful step at a time.
A longer look
The New Year has a way of making us restless. We chase clarity, momentum, a better version of ourselves—something “real” to hold onto. But this week’s readings gently interrupt the scramble. They offer a different kind of confidence. God is already at work, already speaking, already leading.
Jeremiah pictures God gathering scattered people like a shepherd bringing everyone home—tender, attentive, purposeful. The Psalm joins in with praise: God strengthens, provides, and speaks life into ordinary places. Ephesians lifts our eyes even higher. It reminds us that our lives are part of a bigger story. This story includes blessing, identity, and calling. John’s Gospel brings it all into focus. The Light has come into the world. The darkness doesn’t get the final word.
So this week isn’t about chasing God down. It’s about learning to walk toward the Light that’s already shining. We let that Light name who we are. It also shows us where we’re going and what matters most.
Revised Common Lectionary – Second Sunday After Christmas
(Read along with us during the week after Sunday’s message.)
- Monday, January 5 — Old Testament: Jeremiah 31:7–14
- Tuesday, January 6 — Psalm: Psalm 147:12–20
- Wednesday, January 7 — Epistle: Ephesians 1:3–14
- Thursday, January 8 — Gospel: John 1:(1–9), 10–18
- Friday, January 9 — Thread of Grace: God’s light guides ordinary people toward extraordinary purpose.
Weekly Practice
Notice where God is leading you through small nudges this week.
Pay attention to repeated themes and quiet convictions. Look for prompt encouragement or a “gentle pull” toward a person, decision, or next step. Respond with one small act of obedience.
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