The Light of the World
Scripture Reading — John 8:12-18
"I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me ... will have the light of life." John 8:12
Alexei was in his early 30s when he lost his eyesight because of a rare illness. His wife, friends, and relatives soon left him. Only his loving mother stayed. Depressed, he spent his days listening to the radio. That's how he heard the good news of Jesus for the first time.
Alexei contacted us, and I had the privilege of visiting him several times and presenting him with a New Testament on tape. He told me that he enjoyed the Gospel of John the most. Why? Because John often contrasts light with darkness. Alexei could really relate to that contrast.
In today's passage from the gospel of John, Jesus calls himself the light of the world. He truly is the light who fully reveals to us God's love and the way of salvation. In his light we see ourselves for who we really are--sinners in need of a Savior. His light removes the darkness of sin from our lives and shows us the road ahead.
Alexei's physical vision was impaired, but the Lord blessed him with keen spiritual sight. When he heard the call to believe, Alexei gave his life to Jesus. I still remember the words of his testimony: "I am blind, but I see the light of Christ. And for me that matters the most." Have you seen the beautiful light of God's salvation? Have you let this light shine into and transform your life?
Father, thank you for sending your bright light into our dark world. In Christ's light we see not only our sinfulness but also your glorious salvation. Shine, Jesus, shine! Amen.
About the author — Sergei Sosedkin
Sergei Sosedkin is the Russian-language ministry leader for ReFrame Ministries. He is a native of Moscow, Russia. As he oversees the Russian-language ministry, Sosedkin works from our office in Grand Rapids and in various locations in Russia.
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