​Lately I have been preaching through a series on Jesus as the light of the world and how different

people have seen that light (the woman caught in adultery, the blind man, the widow who gave

her mite). 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, NIV).

At this time of year, I am always thinking about light because we are living in ever increasing

darkness. I enjoy fire light, candle light, white Christmas lights, fireworks and all these variations

that make our dark nights brighter. The contrast of the darkness to the light is stark. It is nice to

have candles burning in the summer but how much better is it to feel their warmth in the

dark of winter?

 

We are living in dark times. The world is in chaos and there is hate, anger, war, famine, natural

disasters and so much darkness swirling around us. How much more visible and beautiful will

the light of God be in contrast to all the challenges we face?

Many individuals are living in darkness. There is a hopelessness in our world that is palpable. Suicide rates and divorce, broken families and abuse are at record highs but so also is a growing interest in the light. We are seeing hurting people looking for help and walking in the doors of our churches.

 

We are hearing about young people who are not satisfied with the darkness of this world and are eager to find light in reading the bible. People are talking about a ‘quiet revival’ or awakening that seems to be sweeping into our land and around the world. God is on the move! We are beginning to see the Holy Spirit drawing people out of their darkness and into the light.

Please pray that we would continue to see more people, families, children, students and young adults interested in knowing more about faith. God works through our lives. He uses us, as dark and sinful as we are, and shines his light through us into the lives of others. We make mistakes but God still loves, forgives and has amazing plans to impact those around us through our faithfulness.
During the Advent and Christmas seasons people are even more open to hearing about God’s love. Be prayerful that others will see his light in you.

 

Be willing to share that light, tell them why you have hope despite your challenges. Be careful not to miss opportunities by being too busy. There are many wonderful activities that happen during this time of year but they can distract us from the importance of sharing Jesus’s love and light with a hurting world.

Enjoy the warmth of the light this Advent and look for light in unexpected places. Remember that even though you might not feel worthy, God looks on you with love and each and every one of us can be a conduit for Jesus’s love and light! To God be the glory and may his light shine through our cracks!

May God’s light and love open your hearts this December and into the New Year! We would love to see you in worship and look forward to welcoming you at the special opportunities we are offering for prayer, study and fellowship!