Thanks to John Carley for contributing the featured image!
John 8:12 Jesus spoke to them again: “I am the light of the world. Anyone who follows me will never walk in the darkness but will have the light of life.”
The morning news was filled with despair and unspeakable horror, again!
Over and over the sadness repeats like a broken record. Even believers lose heart and are fearful. Many are trapped in cages that Jesus already freed them from. Yet, they cling to the cage bars with all of their might.
There is no point in repeating the litany of tragedies and atrocities. They are caused by sin and separation from God.
But there is something different in the lives of those who love God. They see the Light of the World every day. They hurt and grieve. Sometimes their faith seems to be hard to hold onto. They are abused and mistreated. But that Light! They never seem to lose sight of its bright, beautiful beacon. The darker it gets the more brilliantly it shines.
Their focus isn’t because of their goodness. Their goodness is because of their Focus. They are clothed in His pure Life.
The Christmas star from so long ago seems new every single day. Even in the heat of mid-summer. It reminds us of the Hope of the world. Not a wish for, but a promise of.
Our Redeemer knows what it’s like to walk in the dark. He never became a part of the darkness. But He felt the magnitude of its hate and injury. He understands the weight of loneliness.
For believers, we have been given the Treasure of redemption. We are rich! Earth’s poverty is no more than a steppingstone that began at the manger, led to the foot of the Cross and the empty grave, and ends at the entryway of Heaven.
So, believer, if Jesus really lives in you through the power of the Spirit of God, then let go of the cage bars. The door is unlocked and wide open. Take courage. Even if it costs you, repent and turn from living in this dark world.
To my brothers and sisters who are walking with the Savior of the world, faithfully, keep going. One foot in front of the other. The Hope of Christmas is with you every step of the way!
Sing Hallelujah! Sing Hallelujah! 1
Sing Hallelujah for the things He has done!
Come and adore Him!
Bow down before Him.
Sing Hallelujah to the Light of the World!
- Light of the World (Sing Hallelujah)
Songwriters: Andrew Bergthold, Edmond Martin Cash, Franni Cash, Martin Cash, Scott Mctyeire Cash. For non-commercial use only. ↩︎
Getting the Seed out of the basket and into hungry hearts. Matthew 13 