Light Of The WorldSample

Where is the light?
by Rev. Mark Bartsch

We all have days when difficult times seem to overtake us. Your sister told you that she has to go to physical therapy to help her to recover from an accident. Your brother-in-law was diagnosed with cancer. Problems at work are causing stress. Perhaps you were hoping that the New Year could mean a “new” start for you, your family, and your business. But problems carried over. The sadness and the strife seem to be increasing. 

Due to sin and our sinful nature, we live in the darkness. This world is a dark and difficult place in which to live. There are accidents, shootings, theft, and burglaries. People are mugged on their way home from work. Neighbor fights against neighbor, and an agreement cannot be reached. To be honest, we are afraid of the dark. We need light in the midst of this dark world. 

Isaiah is right when he talks about “the people walking in darkness.” We are living and walking in darkness. We realize day by day that the darkness is increasing. The love is growing cold as the Lord told us. Neither schools nor churches are safe places anymore. We worry about the safety of our families and friends. We need light in the midst of this dark world. 

The Lord knows that we need light. Isaiah prophesied the coming of the great light: “on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned." (NIV) This prophecy tells us about the coming of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. He is the Light of the world. In John Chapter 8, Jesus says, “I am the light of the world; He who follows Me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (NASB)

In these days after Christmas, let us rejoice in the Light that is Jesus. Let us turn from the darkness. Let us worry no more, for the Lord Jesus has come to live, to die, and to rise again to give light and life to all who believe and trust in him. 

Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, bless us with your light and your love every day. Remind us daily to avoid the works of darkness. You are the Light that lights up our world. Help us to make use of the opportunities that you place before us to share your light. In your name we pray. Amen.