The Light Shines in the Darkness

“In him 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), NIV).

Imagine for a moment the spiritual and emotional darkness into which Jesus was born two thousand years ago. The Jewish people were being oppressed outwardly by the Roman rulers who had conquered them, and spiritually oppressed inwardly by their own religious leaders. A true understanding of God, His love for humanity, and the relationship He desired with people was being obscured by the darkness of humanity and its selfishness.

But a star that rose in the East illuminated the birth of no ordinary person, a baby born in Bethlehem came to bring light into the world. The light that guided the three wise men, that lit up the sky for the shepherds, was embodied in the life and passion of Jesus, the hope of humanity, the redeemer and restorer, the expression of God in human form. As the angels declared, Jesus’ birth was to be “good news that will cause great joy to all people” (Luke 2:10). Jesus brought light and life for all people thousands of years ago. He came to bring hope, peace, and a new way of living, not just for the Jews, but for all people both then and now.

This light that Jesus brought and continues to hold out to all of us is within us today. It is a light that cannot be overcome, a light that shines in even the darkest of situations. And that light within is meant to spill over into the dark places of the world, to illuminate Christ and draw people to himself.

As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, may we remember and walk in his light in the dark places of our lives, and may we allow that light to shine out of us to others.

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matt. 5:16).