Love and Faith Light of the World

Week 2 | December 10, 2022

“And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways, to give knowledge of salvation to his people in the forgiveness of their sins, because of the tender mercy of our God, whereby the sunrise shall visit us from on high to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.””

Luke 1:76-79 ESV

Those who dwell in lands where literal darkness takes over for a portion of the year struggle with depression and suicide during those days.

Those who dwell in figurative darkness struggle too.

The death and destruction from darkness in our souls is something we are all too familiar with. Sin brings darkness in so many ways. Darkness in our thoughts, actions, and beliefs.

Firelight in particular draws us in and opens us up. Our eyes are drawn to light. We share confidences around campfires. We risk romance over candlelight dinners. Light signals safety and connection. When someone says, “We’ll leave a light on for you,” we feel cared for and welcomed.

Jesus is God’s light of love and welcome to us all. No matter what our sins might be, Jesus calls us out of darkness and into His light.

Consider:

Think of the dark places you have known in your heart, the dark places your soul has been, how did it work itself out in your life?

Consider the light of God’s love for you, the shining brightness of salvation Jesus brings to you, what its fruit in your life? How does it shine on others around you?

Remember:

When you see candles or fires during this season, let their light remind you of Jesus, the Light of the World, calling you home to Himself.

Share:

When did you first see or feel welcomed by God’s light?

How can you welcome others with light?