ADVENT 2019: LIGHT
My young children are not very big fans of the dark. Without the certainty of what’s happening around them, their imaginations run wild and fear creeps in. They are not able to calm down enough to go to sleep without some form of illumination, whether that’s the door being cracked or plugging in the nightlight. Those small sources of light drive the darkness away enough for them to make sense of their surroundings as they settle into the glow. The uncertainty that produces fear is driven out as well. The light provides security, bearing, and understanding.
Apart from Jesus, we live in spiritual darkness. We have little ability to understand who we are, why we are here, or what is going on around us. Jesus alone can illuminate the answers to those questions because he is light. Being uniquely both God and man, he is the perfect conduit, able to reveal our need and his solution. When we set our eyes on Jesus we can see and understand God’s grace, truth, and love. In John 8 we read,
John 8:12 Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
When we trust in Jesus, something amazing takes place. We become an extension of him. We become light to the world around us. And just as it was for Jesus, the darkness in this world will not overcome us. During his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said to his disciples:
Matt. 5:14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
When we allow Jesus’ light to illuminate our lives, those around us are drawn, like a moth to a flame, to the beauty of the Savior. And we can only do that when we focus on the true light, Jesus Christ. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, let’s rejoice in that light and allow it to permeate every thought, action, relationship, and word.
For Discussion/Reflection:
1. Describe a time you experienced darkness. How did it feel when light was provided?
2. How has your experience of the light that Jesus provides changed the way you perceive yourself or God?
3. What are some ways you can be a light in your family, at school, work, or in your community?
Prayer:
Lord, we celebrate the light of your son, Jesus. We thank you for sending him so that we can know you. Though we were once in darkness, you saved us. In saving us you have called us to extend that light to others. Father, please help us to shine brightly for you—that others would see the beauty of Jesus. In his name, we pray, Amen.
Author: Charlie Meng, Teaching Pastor