Light

In this time of the shortest day of the year, some things still seem lighter and brighter – the stars at night, sparkling frost and snow, sunlight dancing on the waters of the Chesapeake Bay. I have also noticed more Christmas Lights and decorations on North First Street than in past years. I am anticipating the fireworks on New Year’s Eve. As they bring a smile to me, I reflect on the importance of light in our lives.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the winter solstice occurs on December 21, leaving only about ten hours of daylight. Celebrations were held in many cultures to welcome the return of the light, when people gained comfort and confidence with the light giving the promise of warmth, crops and security.

How easy it is, then, to see the significance of light in relationship to God. From “Let there be light” in Genesis to “They will need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light” in Revelation, light is identified with the Messiah throughout the Old and New Testament. Isaiah prophesies that the Messiah will bring light: “The people who sit in darkness have seen a great light (9:2). Matthew, quoted Isaiah, reveals that the light is Jesus (4:16a).

Light is necessary to lead the way out of darkness to safety and security. We are told that “My God illuminates the darkness around me” (Ps 18:28). Light replaces the lack of understanding with wisdom and exposes wickedness, distress, and perplexity while it reveals God’s holiness and righteousness. David proclaims, “the Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I Fear?” (Ps 27:1). Jesus refers to himself as the “light of the world,” the way out of darkness, sin, and death so that we are reconciled to God and can begin to walk in the light that leads to eternal life.

No wonder, then, that light brings such delight at Christmas, comfort and security for a child sleeping in a darkened room, and joy seen in the shining faces and sparkling eyes of those who love others as themselves, all because of the amazing love of Jesus. Lights and more lights! As we enjoy these lights of the season, may we recall that one Light that remains throughout this year and all years – the light of the world, Jesus Christ.