Exchanging Darkness for Light
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The Christmas narrative is filled with touch points about the theme of light:
In Zechariah’s song, he says, “...the morning light from heaven is about to break upon us to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death...” The magi followed the light of a star to find Jesus in Bethlehem. The shepherds saw the radiance of God’s glory when the angels appeared to them. And hundreds of years before Jesus, prophet Isaiah said of him, “The people who walk in darkness will see a great light. For those who live in a land of deep darkness, a light will shine.”
From start to finish, the bible is filled with a theology that says our world, although created good, is now filled with darkness. But this is not some abstract idea - it’s our lived-in reality. A quick read through the news this week shows you how prevalent it is. We see, all over the world - in every culture and among every people - snapshots of the darkness. Self-centredness, evil, sin, corrupt systems, and hunger for power. We also see the effects of that darkness: brokenness, sadness, oppression, anxiety, death, sickness and despair.
But at Christmas, we are reminded of the truth that God was not content to leave us in darkness. He loves us so much, He gave us a light - he gave us his son. Shortly after Jesus was born, when Joseph and Mary presented him at the temple, Simeon, while holding baby Jesus, says, “I have seen your salvation, which you have prepared for all people. He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and he is the glory of your people Israel!””
And later in his life, Jesus himself said, "...I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”
The beauty of our gospel, the beauty of Christmas is that Jesus entered into our darkness in order to be the light for us to follow. He brings us hope through the future he has secured for us through his death and resurrection. He gives us peace through his eternal presence with us in life. He fills us with joy by using us to accomplish his plan for the world. He IS love and he shows it to us daily. That’s the light of Christ - the hope, peace, joy, and love that he exudes for each one of us.
Although there is still darkness all around us, we, the people of God are people of light. By the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, now the light of Christ is in each one of us. We carry in us a supernatural hope that overcomes despair, a peace that passes all understanding, a joy that is inexpressible and glorious, and a love that changes lives. Jesus is the light of the world but he shines through you.
So, this Christmas, remember that Jesus entered into our darkness to shine a light that leads us from death and despair to life. May each one of us, from the youngest in the room to the oldest, let our light shine for all to see so that the world may glorify our God.
Pray.