December is one of the darkest months of the year here in the Northern Hemisphere. And it is fitting that our holidays make use of beautifully colored lights and candles during this time. If you take a drive during this month, you are likely to see houses, shops, and streets decorated and shining with brilliant displays.
The prophet Isaiah used light to describe the coming of the Savior. In Isaiah 9:2 we read, “The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined.” Many years later, Jesus would say, “I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” (John 9:12)
Sometimes we feel encumbered by the darkness of guilt, shame, or just the heaviness of trying to make it day by day through this world in our own strength. We can see in the world today the darkness of sin, in the way people treat each other, the wars and fighting going on in the world, or in the selfishness in our own hearts. Truly this world needs a Savior: truly we need a Savior.
John says about Jesus, “In him was life; and that life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:4-5 NIV)
How can we, in our dark world, see Christ’s light? There are many ways. First, just look at all that God created: the stars in the night sky, the singing birds and the nimble trees, a tall majestic mountain, or the frothing waves of the sea. We can see Christ’s light in the pages of his Word, the Bible. And we can see his light in other people, who shine his light through a kind word or an unselfish deed, through encouragement given, or grace and forgiveness extended.
And we were meant to shine that light to others. Jesus said “You are the light of the world…Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father, who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:14a, 16) As Jesus shines his light and life into your heart and soul today, ask him to help you shine his light to others, as well.
If you have the time, here is a song by Sovereign Grace Music called “Shine Into Our Night,” by Joel Sczebel and sung by Meghan Baird. Shine Into Our Night
