Light of Life

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

Light is a beautiful thing. We all come to appreciate this each year when daylight savings time rolls around. By the rays of the sun, we can enjoy all God's creation. Sometimes, it is nice to sit outside and bask in its light and warmth on these long winter days, enjoying a reprieve from the darkness. The lights in our homes illuminate our way so we can see obstacles. Light is also instinctual; we are naturally drawn to it. When the light by fire was no longer sufficient for man, we searched for artificial means of creating it using gas and electricity. Today, many of us own generators to ensure that we can maintain our lights in emergencies.

Christ offers us the light of life -- spiritual light, so there's no longer a need to live in darkness. Instead, we rejoice in the warmth of God's presence. When the days of darkness seem exceedingly long, we need only remember the light found in prayer and scripture. By the light of the Holy Spirit, we can avoid the obstacles and hazards in our way, walking with sure footing.

Spiritually we are drawn to the light. Without it, our souls have a void, and we search for things to fill the vacuum. There are no artificial sources, no emergency generators; only Christ's light can drive away the emptiness and darkness.

The light is not a singular one-time event controlled by an on and off switch but resides glowing within us while we remain in Christ. It is the light of life, our lives forever transformed by its presence.

God, thank you for the light of life brought by Jesus. You offer freedom from darkness and fullness for the void. Please help us share this light with others today and guide our actions to transform this world. We ask this in the name of the true light, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Tim