Light Of The World

Read

John 8:12 “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

Think

Every December, it happens. You pull out the Christmas lights, feeling festive and optimistic—until you see the mess. The tangled cords seem to mock you as you spend way too long sorting them out, only to discover half the bulbs don’t work. You’re tempted to toss the whole thing in the trash. But then, after what feels like forever, the lights come on. And suddenly, the frustration fades. The glow transforms the space, making everything feel warm, alive, and just a little bit magical.

In a way, our tangled Christmas lights are a picture of our lives—messy, frustrating, sometimes broken. But then there’s the Light of the World, Jesus, who steps into our mess and transforms everything. Over 2,000 years ago, the world was waiting in darkness. Generations had longed for a Savior, someone to untangle the brokenness of sin, despair, and fear. And then, in the quiet of Bethlehem, he came.

It wasn’t flashy. There was no grand spectacle, just a manger and the cry of a newborn. But above it all, a single star shone brightly, piercing the darkness. The Star of Bethlehem wasn’t just a beautiful light; it was a beacon of hope, leading the world to the Savior. And it declared that no amount of darkness—not the pain of life, not the weight of sin, not even death—could overcome the Light of the World.

Jesus’ light reaches into every corner of our hearts. It finds us in the brokenness we try to hide, in the struggles we think no one sees. In John 1:5, it says, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” That’s the hope of Advent: no matter how tangled life feels, his light is enough. It heals. It restores. It shines.

So as you look at those twinkling Christmas lights this season, let them remind you of a greater Light. The one who came for you, to shine in your darkness and fill your heart with hope. And as his light fills you, let it shine through you, pointing others to the hope that never fades.

Apply

Think of one person who might be struggling this holiday season. Reach out with a text, a call, or an invitation. Your presence and care can reflect the light of Jesus to them.

Pray

God, thank you for being the light of the world, shining into our darkest places with hope, healing, and love. Help me to trust you when life feels overwhelming. Fill my heart with your peace and joy, and guide me to reflect your light to others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.