Christmas Lights
“In Jesus was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”- John 1:4-5
I know of many who chose to decorate way earlier this Christmas, as a statement of their joyful celebration in the face of such a challenging season. We made a similar decision, by adding more lights this year. In addition to the traditional places Christmas lights are found (trees and outdoors), we have wrapped them around stairs, nativity sets, and other decorative pieces. Having more lights this Christmas just feels right and seems to be needed today more than ever!
Every time I behold the glorious display alighting my home, I sense the Lord is wanting me to see Christmas lights as a symbol of HOPE. As we celebrate the Birth of our Savior, one of the things that needs to be remembered is the condition of the world (of people), when God chose to send His Son. Isaiah 9:2 tells us, “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.” The world was plagued by a darkness it could not cure itself of. It needed the Creator’s loving plan to bring about the gift of light, life, and redemption.
In 2020 we are seeing a lot of darkness overshadow our world. Compounding all that we have experienced and endured (COVID-19, the presidential election, financial crisis), is an increasing sense of despair, doubt for what is to come, and division amongst people. Neighbors are arguing over wearing masks; family members are not talking over politics; and even churches (Christ’s Body) are at odds over in-person gatherings and guidelines. The darkness is everywhere and seems to be intensifying.
Despite all of this, there is good news for us this December. The Christmas narrative is not just a beautiful love story (John 3:16), it is an epic victory story (1 John 5:4-5). The Light of the World has come into the darkness, overpowering that which sought to overshadow our lives. In John 8:12 Jesus says, “I am the Light of the World. Whoever follows Me will never walk in darkness but have the light of life.” Because the Light REIGNS, darkness cannot REMAIN. The light is greater, releasing a truth we can see, a path we can follow, and a breakthrough we can hope in!
Lights are not just a decoration for the home, but a gift from God that can be forever deposited in our hearts. Psalm 18:28 speaks of this always burning and always blessing gift, “You, Lord, keep my lamp burning; the Lord turns my darkness into light.”