Photo by O.S. Fisher 
Dear Friends who love Jesus,
Recently I heard a testimony about how someone loves Christmas because they love the display of lights at this time of year. I heartily agree that Christmas lights are one of my favorite things about Christmas. I love to sit quietly, especially on a Sabbath evening, and look at the lights on our Christmas tree!
That testimony got me thinking about why lights are so special at Christmas time, and two things have come to my mind. Lights remind us that Jesus is the light of the world and that, as the Son of God, is full of glory. Christmas, as the celebration of His birth, should remind us of what Jesus is like. He is full of light (“no part dark”) and He is full of God’s glory!
As Christians we sing about Jesus being the light of the world, and it may have become a Christian cliché to us without a lot of meaning. Light in the natural world illuminates things so that we can see. So what did Jesus’ coming illuminate so that everyone can see clearly? Here are a few thoughts, and I am sure you can think of more:
- There is a God
- God is with us and loves us
- God wants a relationship with us
- There are spiritual realities like heaven
- He has a purpose, a plan, a future and a hope
One of the grandest realities about light is that it overcomes darkness (John 1:5). “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (or, as another translation puts it, “cannot overpower it”). No matter how dark things may become in our world, just a small light can overcome the darkness. Jesus, as the light of the world, when reflected in our lives, is an irresistible and powerful force.
Lights also show Jesus’ beauty and glory. Even unbelievers love displays of lights, but as believers, beautiful lights remind us that Jesus is “the radiance of the glory of God.” Each of the colored lights could be a different aspect of his wonderful character.
I love Jesus and I am so glad He came to earth, not only to save us, but to show us God and His beauty and glory.
God Bless your Sabbath and Christmas as you reflect on Christ,
Neil
