Jesus, The Light of the World
Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.”
John 8:12 NKJV
As I take a moment to reflect during this busy holiday season, I am reminded of one of my very favorite things. Relaxing in my recliner, in the silence of night, gazing upon the twinkling glow of my Christmas tree lights. As I enjoy the warmth it brings to my soul, I am reminded of the holiness of the Christmas season that so often takes second place to pomp, parties, and presents.
In this scripture, Jesus Himself declared that He is the light of the world and that anyone who would choose to follow Him would not walk in darkness, but rather experience the light of life that comes only through the revelation He brings. His declaration gives His followers the ability to choose light over darkness.
Wow! What a wonderful promise!
Jesus entered this world just like you and I did. As a baby. His heavenly royalty was revealed and recognized by the common and the wealthy alike, much like it is today. Remember His mother, Mary? The shepherds? The wisemen? However, the beholder had to be longing and looking for Him then and looking and longing for Him now. Looking and longing for the Light of the World!
Ever wonder why Herod could not see a star so brilliant that it led the wisemen like a GPS across moor and mountain to Jerusalem, then on to Bethlehem, the place where He lay? Why was this brilliant star not evident to him? Perhaps it was because his heart did not long for the Light of the World?
If I never attend one party or receive a single gift this year, I pray my heart always longs for and sees the Light of the World that never stops giving, never stops comforting, never stops guiding, and never stops loving. Allow His light to give you the best gift of the season, the warmth and glow of knowing His Light is His presence here with us.
Merry Christmas
Immanuel
“Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.”
Isaiah 7:14 NKJV
Immanuel, not a name we hear very often outside of the Christmas season, but oh! what a beautiful name. Isaiah is prophesying that God is going to be with us. See, Jesus was not just any baby…He was the baby, the one who was the incarnation of a Holy, loving God, made flesh and dwelling with men. He is the express image of God…the visible of the invisible! He literally became God with us and that still stands true today. Jesus came to redeem humanity…to bring us back into our original intent. And that original intent was to have fellowship with a loving God and to walk with Him, for the Lord to dwell with and in us…to be one—to be family. And Christmas is about family! Sharing the love of God with one another and making Jesus known!
“And I heard a thunderous voice from the throne, saying: “Look! God’s tabernacle is with human beings. And from now on he will tabernacle with them as their God. Now God himself will have his home with them— ‘God-with-them’ will be their God!”
Revelation 21:3 TPT
As we enjoy this wonderful time of year—feasting with our families and friends, opening gifts—let’s not forget that it is for one reason we celebrate…the birth of our Lord and Savior and His name is Immanuel—God with us! Let there be peace on earth and goodwill toward men! Have a very Merry Christmas!