The LIGHT OF THE WORLD
Scripture Reading — John 8:12-18
“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
Are you familiar with electromagnetic energy? That's the technical term for something very basic to life: light. In his second "I am" statement in John's gospel, Jesus claims, "I am the light of the world."
Jesus makes this claim during the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles celebrated at the temple in Jerusalem. During this feast, four giant candelabras or lampstands (possibly 75 feet high) were lit in one of the temple courts. Because of the temple's prominent place, the light of these candles could be seen throughout Jerusalem. While the light radiated, crowds of people danced in the streets celebrating God's deliverance of his people from slavery in Egypt.
With these candles burning brightly, Jesus declared, "I am the light of the world." Notice that he wasn't claiming to be Israel's national savior. He was making a global claim to deliver sinners from the darkness of rebellion against God, a darkness that infects us individually and plagues our world with hatred and violence. Jesus' salvation is for all who believe in him, since he is the light for all nations.
Do you know this "light of the world"? If you do, let him shine in your life today and bring you into closer fellowship with the Father and with those around you.
Jesus, light of the world, shine your radiant light in the dark corners of our lives. Draw us closer to yourself and our Father in heaven. Let us shine in this dark world for you. Amen.
About the author — Kurt Selles
Kurt Selles is the director of ReFrame Ministries and serves as the Executive Editor of Today. He is a graduate of Calvin College and Seminary, and received his PhD from Vanderbilt University. Before coming to ReFrame, he served 19 years in Taiwan and China with CRC World Missions. Kurt later taught missions at Beeson Divinity School, where he also acted as the director of the school’s Global Center. Kurt and his wife, Vicki, reside in Grand Rapids and have three adult children.
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