Journeying Through AdventSample

Moving from Darkness to Light

When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.” ~John 8:12 (NIV)

Every year when people begin to decorate their homes for the holiday season, Christians also prepare to remember the birth of our Savior. Many decorate their homes inside and out with strings of tiny electric lights. Throughout his ministry, Jesus referred to himself as the light of the world. He assured his followers that they would no longer walk in darkness. Wow, what an offer: to no longer walk in darkness! It's a terrible thing to walk in darkness. After a devastating hurricane hit the Caribbean island where I live, darkness enveloped the entire island for several months. We had no electricity. We lived amid darkness. On nights with no moon, you could barely see your hand in front of your face. If you went out in the middle of the night, you would stumble over the debris that was everywhere. Now, Jesus was not referring to physical darkness, but rather to a darkness of the mind resulting from a soul without Christ or someone who fails to follow Him. Many of us have received Jesus as our Savior, but we must follow Him so that the light continues to give us life, constantly illuminating our steps so that we do not stumble.

Eventually, the Christmas lights are taken down. The things of this world offer no permanence: material possessions and even some personal relationships can end or go out like the little lights. But, if you follow Jesus, He will illuminate everything with His presence and provision and peace. May we prepare ourselves in these days not only with shiny lights and decorations for the holiday, but with the reading and reflection of His Word. Then, we may see the path that he has traced for us, to the promises He has for us, illuminated by his love.

Prayer: Lord, you are the author and creator of light. Thank you for being the light of the world that shines even in the darkest of times. May your goodness and love illuminate our life's path to let your glory shine bright in this world. Amen.

Written by Wendy Colon (Wesley Seminary Master of Divinity class of 2023 and current Doctor of Ministry student)