12/22/2022
Christmas Light, #4
“Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you.
See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples,
but the Lord rises upon you and his glory appears over you.” Isaiah 66:1-2
The light of God’s glory illuminates the darkness of our thoughts and the fears of our souls. His light within, fills us with hope for a future light brighter than any we’ve seen—clearer than we can comprehend, glorious beyond description, lacking shadow and haze, intense but not glaring, elating and refreshing our souls.
The light that guided wisemen to the Savior, guides us to kneel before Him. We worship Him now but anticipate living in the light of His glory, when darkness no longer covers the earth. His light in us urges our hearts to anticipate life in His kingdom.
The celebration of Christmas offers us a respite from our stifling darkness as it points us to a realm undimmed by sin. Think for a moment about the dark effect of our current dwelling place: distrust, insecurity, fear, hostility, intimidation, inferiority, bitterness, offence, jealousy, anger, uncertainty, suspicion, tension, threats, instability, and so on. It is hard to imagine living in a world of light where God will erase every shadow.
There will be no negative words, questionable glances, or critical comments. We will believe the best, attain the most, succeed in our efforts, excel in our gifts, rejoice unrestrained.
At Christmas, may our anticipation of happy company, shared meals, and joyous gift-giving, pique our longing for the full, unhindered, and pure joy that awaits us.
BARBARA HIGBY 