Light in Our Darkness
Scripture Reading — Isaiah 9:1-5
Jesus … 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
During the Christmas season people call out, “Merry Christmas!” But for many people the season can be filled with loneliness and depression. In the face of disappointment, what is the source of hope?
Isaiah 9 offers hope in the face of hardship. Israel had rejected God’s Word, and the Jewish regions of Zebulun and Naphtali had been suffering greatly under enemy attacks. But in this context of darkness, God promised light.
Think about the power of light. Light brings life, clarity, and safety. It drives away gloom and brings hope. Nightlights allow little children to sleep peacefully. Light offers safety as we walk down dark streets. Light can keep you from falling, and it allows crops to grow.
God’s promise was fulfilled in Jesus, who declared, “I am the light of the world.” Isaiah prophesied that light and honor would come to Galilee. Much of Jesus’ public ministry was in Galilee. It was there that he fed crowds of many thousands, released the demon possessed, healed the sick, and taught the Word of God.
Isaiah said, “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.” Have you seen this light? Jesus promised, “Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” May we grow in hope as we follow the Lord’s light.
Jesus, you are our light and life. Drive away our darkness and fill us with hope. Help us to walk in the way of light. Amen.
About the author — Calvin Aardsma
Calvin Aardsma has been a pastor for more than thirty years. He has served churches in Indiana, Oregon, and the Chicago area. Currently, he is a pastor of Bethel Christian Reformed Church in Lansing, Illinois. He also serves on the board of the Ugandan Orphanage Relief Fund. Cal and his wife, Sandy, have four children and five grandchildren.
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