Friday December 9, 2022

Today is Friday, December 9 and this week continues our journey through the Advent season as we proclaim Jesus as light of the world.

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

In the Christmas season we find lights covering most corners of our communities. We drive through neighborhoods at night to see displays. We decorate our own homes–inside and out. Often, we will turn off all other lights to see the Christmas lights shine all the brighter. We know that light is best seen and its power best understood in the darkest of places.

The story of Advent is the story of light coming into the darkness. In a broad sense, this is the work God has always been doing. God spoke into the chaotic and meaningless void and there was light. God’s very being is described as light in 1 John 1:5. Revelation 21:23 speaks of the New Jerusalem illuminated by the glory of God and the lamp of the Lamb. In the Old Testament, the people of God themselves were called to be a light in Isaiah 49:6.

Jesus says to us “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). Ephesians describes how we were once darkness but are now light in the Lord and are called now to live as children of the light (Eph. 5:8). Jesus also says to us: “You are the light of the world” (Matt. 5:14).

This Advent season, may we again see the light of Christ as it confronts the darkness of our world. And may we ourselves live as lights in the world– bearing the good news of Jesus’ love to all.

Ask
How has Jesus shone a light in your life and heart? How have you been called to be a light within your home, church, workplace, or city? How might Advent create opportunities for you to shine brighter?

Light of the World, shine the light of your love on my heart this season. Shine in me that I might shine for you in the world. I want to be a beacon of your hope this Advent season. Let me shine! Amen.

Listen and sing along with us to songs that will shape our Advent season. Today we will sing “Light of the World” by Lauren Daigle which you can find here. Subscribe to our Spotify playlist featuring all of our Songs for the Season here.

First 15 through the season of Advent is adapted from Roots: Advent and the Family Story of Jesus available through Seedbed. If you or your small group are interested in using this resource for your Advent study, you can find more information here or send an email to discipleship@fmcm.org.