And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. - John 1:5
The Advent season is upon us. The four week season is observed by reflection and worship on Christian Hope, Love, Joy and Peace. It is a time of personal preparation, a time of waiting and anticipation. Advent instructs us to look to Jesus , who is the Light of the world.
As seasons change, and we lose daylight to the darkness of winter, Let us never forget that no matter how dark it becomes , the light of the Lord is always shining. In ancient times people feared darkness and looked to God to bring light into the darkness. God, the Creator of all things could see darkness as light and protect us from the evils of the night. The birth of Jesus would bring light to the people who believed that no one cared about them and who felt there was no one to help them. Jesus would bring God closer to us by modeling ways to express love for Him. He is Emmanuel.
The bible says, "And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. - John 1:5" These words offer to us encouragement and assurance. In the darkness of winter, in the darkness of economic uncertainty, political upheaval, violence, war and virus...Jesus is still the Light that shineth in darkness! And the darkness is no match for Him!
Prayer
God, with you there is no darkness. Your character has no shadows, and you are pure and good. Yet in our broken world, we see so much darkness around us. Pain, sickness, and disease are in our community and in many of our homes.
Bring your light and restoring presence to the dark places in our lives. Bring your hope to hearts that feel defeated. Bring your love and compassion to those in pain.
Give us faith to say with the psalmist, “Lord, you light my lamp; my God illuminates my darkness.” May your light of hope shine in the darkness for families today. Show us glimpses of your presence with us and the comfort you bring.
In the busyness of today, help us to take a moment to be still and sit with you. To slow down, breathe deeply, and release our burdens to your strong hand. You are trustworthy, good, and true, and we thank you for caring for us so deeply and beautifully.
Open our eyes to see you at work today. Give us your light.
In Jesus name, Amen.
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