A Light Shining in the Darkness
Have you ever witnessed a sunrise? The dark, black skies continue until there is a gradual rising of the sun - shining forth a bright, magnificent light. The light overcomes the darkness.
As we approach Christmas Day, may we be reminded of a light greater than the sun. In a world of sin and shame, there is a curse of great darkness upon us. Throughout the Bible, there are multiple Scriptures where Jesus is referred to as life and light. In John 1:4-5, "In him was life; and life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.” This passage of Scripture reminds us of who Jesus was and why he came to Earth.
Jesus came to be the Light and set people free from the Darkness. Darkness and light are metaphors for our heart’s conditions. When sin entered the world, humanity was darkened by the effects of sinful choices. Everything that opposes Jesus is darkness. If we want to live in light, we must no longer choose the ways of darkness and death. For 1 John 1:5b-6 tells us “God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.” If we desire a true relationship with Jesus, we must reject the darkness in this world.
Jesus’ birth brought light and life to all. He came to transform those who are lost. When Jesus was describing his purpose in Luke 19:10, he said “For the Son of Man has come to save that which was lost.” His time on Earth was a reflection of this statement. He rescued sinners, freed the captives, and gave the blind their sight. Everything Jesus touched was completely changed. Those who had lived in darkness now saw the light and were given life abundantly. The prophet Isaiah said, “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death, upon them a light has shined” (9:2).
This Christmas season, I challenge you to search your heart. Have you surrendered your life to Jesus and allowed him to transform you? Until you place your faith in Jesus and let him fill you, you will be full of darkness. The dark stains of sin can be blotted out by Jesus’ wondrous light. The light brings forth life, to everyone who believes. The truth of the gospel can liberate you from your darkness. Jesus is the greatest gift to embrace this holiday season.
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