When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12
Christmas is a season of light. We light up our houses, places of business and even the town and city squares. Some people go all-out while others enjoy the simplicity of a few strands of white lights enhancing their homes. One of my favorite things at Christmas is to turn on the Christmas tree first thing in the morning while it is still dark outside and no other lights are on in the house. I love to sit in the peaceful, colorful setting while I talk to the Lord about the day ahead.
Christmas lights are a bright spot in the dark world around us. Their warm glow can dispel sadness and make a bad day seem better. In the United States December is one of the darkest months, with the first day of winter, also the shortest day of the year, falling on the 21st. Christmas lights make it somewhat easier to transition to the dark, cold winter months.
When Jesus said He is the light of the world it was certainly about more than Christmas lights! Our news reports remind us daily of the darkness of this world, but even in Jesus’ time the world was filled with the darkness of sin. That darkness can sometimes seem oppressive and overwhelm us. But Jesus cam to dispel the darkness of sin in the world.
Jesus tells us that He is the light of life.
He is more than a candle that can be snuffed out or Christmas lights that will be turned off and taken down at the end of the season. He is the light that lives inside of us when we allow Him to be the leader of our lives. The light of Jesus is there to light our way out of the darkness, no matter how bleak and hopeless our path may seem.
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16
As Christians we are also directed to take the light of Jesus to the dark world around us. A smile or a kind word may seem like a small way to share God’s love but it can make a bigger difference in someone’s life than we may realize.
As you spend this Christmas Eve making preparations you may sit quietly near your own Christmas lights or perhaps gather at a candlelight service tonight at church. Let those lights remind you of the Light of the world, whose birth we celebrate tonight and tomorrow. He is the light that will never be snuffed out, and loves you so much that He came to earth to lead you through whatever darkness comes your way.
Paula Davis 