Don’t you enjoy Christmas candles decorating the mantle? Or looking at the stars on a wintry evening as they sparkle? There is something about light. Sun light, moon light, star light, candle light, fire light. It denotes many things- warmth, security, beauty, mystery, hope, safety, clarity. We bask in it, we are amazed by it, we are intrigued by it, and we feel safe with it. And when you think about it, we are really glad for light, too.
On a major level, light enables us to see! Whether it is seeing something in the physical world and being able to appreciate its presence, or seeing and understanding spiritual wonders that cause us to see things in a “new light”, light gives vision where there would otherwise be none. “Light” can be something that enlightens us or adds wisdom….i.e. seeing in a “new light”. “Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.” Daniel 12:3
There are reportedly no less than 235 Biblical passages about light! In the beginning, light itself was created by God. “And God said, “let there be light” and there was light. God saw that the light was good.” Genesis 1:3-4. The light that illuminates heaven in Revelation is the manifest glory of God. “The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, but the glory of God gives it light”. John 8:12.
Jesus refers to Himself as light. “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 1:5. And then the disciples saw Him transfigured and emanating actual light. “And He was transfigured before them, and His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became white as light.” Matthew 17:2
Good works in Christ are described as light. “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16. The Scriptures also are described as a light which can tell us which way to go. “Your Word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” Ps. 119:105
But I think the most astounding of all is this: “This is the message we have heard from Him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in Him is no darkness at all.” 1 John 1:5. Just as the miracle of the Christmas Star shining above the manger, God is the miracle of light which brings everlasting hope.
God is light and He will not be extinguished. This Christmas, when you look upon candles burning brightly, or up at the stars that are crisp and shining at night, or bask in the warm glow of the fireplace- remember our God, who brought light to the world for you and I to have hope and to experience His marvelous glory. His light is everywhere, and we are part of it. What a gift of indescribable worth.
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:5