The Light Shines

This morning, I made it to my Tuesday morning prayer time. It was good to be back with the group after a couple of weeks of absence and it was good to see most all of those who attend on a regular basis present.

The cold and wind that came up later in the day, and my level of energy discouraged me from getting out to the fitness center, but I did feel productive in getting some work done in my office.

Last night I attended a Broncos’ game night event with the Allies Men’s Group at CB & Potts. It was a great group to watch the game with, even though the final result was not what we were cheering for. My friend Jim Szakmeister, who I have mentioned before was there to lead the group in a few cheers and moments of celebration. (We took a picture to show off our Bronco gear)

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.” John 1:4,5 “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.”   Isaiah 9:2

The setting of the birth of Christ is found at night. It is obvious that babies are born at all times of the day, but the timing of Christ’s birth at night is a significant part of the story.

Darkness and light are two contrasts we are constantly reminded of. It happens at the dawn of each day. It takes place when we turn on a lamp in a dark room. When the light shines, hope arises, confidence and peace enter our lives. And such would it be with the coming of Christ into the world. John in His gospel doesn’t share about the birth of Christ purse, but shares about the Eternal Word coming as “The Light” into a dark world.

Darkness. It was the time of day when Christ was born and it was the condition of the world to which He entered. The shepherds on the hillside were blinded by the light that pierced the darkness as the angels appeared to them. The wise men, saw “The Star” shining brightly against the backdrop of the nigh skies.

The prophet Isaiah spoke of light coming to those in darkness. John simply said, “the light [Jesus] shines in darkness…” Jesus Himself 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 When Christ was crucified, darkness covered the sun, signaling the death of the “light of the world.” But it was at sunrise as a new day was dawning that the tomb of Jesus was discovered empty.

Has the light of Christ encountered the darkness of your heart? Just like the sun, the Son of God continues to shine His light into our life to confront us at our point of need and remove the darkness. Just like in the natural when our eyes must adjust to the light being turned on after being in a dark room, at times the light of Christ can seem to be intrusive and even painful. But as we welcome it, we find that is where we are destined to live.

So my prayer is that Christ’s light will shine brightly in your life, family and your relationships this Christmas season.