This Little Light: An Advent DevotionalSample

Advent is a season of hope, preparation, joy, love, and light. Scripture has so much to say about light. From Genesis to Revelation, we see the scriptural narrative speaks to this truth: that light shines in the darkness, and yet the darkness did not overcome it (John 1:5). No other story in the Bible illustrates this like the coming of the Messiah. From the Psalms' poetic imagery to the prophet Isaiah, scripture tells us of the coming king, prince of peace, Emmanuel, God with us. The metaphor of light shining in the darkness is used to tell us how God provided hope throughout history to his people and to you and me today.

Imagine that everything we do impacts every human in the world; past, present, and future. Our predecessors' faith-acts shine like stars in the sky, poking holes in the veil of darkness, providing hope to coming generations. They are light stretching across time and space to us so we may see their good deeds and praise our Father in heaven. 

Scripture tells us that the light of the world came to us, lived among us, and died for our sins. He was resurrected and now, by the Holy Spirit's power abides within every believer embodying the life and light of Jesus Christ.

Scripture also tells us of those whose faith shone brightest when no light was found—those like Abraham, Joseph and Mary, and the Children of Israel. Together we will look to the past and present as we prepare for and celebrate during this holy season; the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

The song "This Little Light of Mine" serves as both an inspiration and a catalyst for our devotionals each day. I am tying the song's verses with the themes of advent; hope, preparation, peace/joy, and love. Additionally, each day I will provide you with an opportunity for reflection along with a visual meditation from my own time reflecting on the advent season.

Poking A Hole in the Veil: Today as we begin our 5-day journey together, I want you to ponder the lyrics of "This Little Light" and their origins in scripture. Listen to the song below and sing along if you like. Or, try writing your own declaration in this season that despite the darkness around us, you will let your light shine before all men so that they will praise your Father in heaven. 

Note: The four verses in this song are sung one after the other. After each opening line, the phrase "I'm gonna let it shine" is added. Once all the verses have been completed, the first verse can be repeated at the end. I found that it lined up so well with Advent's themes: hope, preparation, joy, and love. Here are the verses: 

This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine. 

This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine. 

This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine. 

Let it shine; let it shine; let it shine. 

V2. Everywhere I go today

V3. All around my neighbor's house

V4. Outside in the dark Lord