Christmas is often painted as a time of joy, celebration, and light. But for many, it can feel overshadowed by the darkness of life's challenges. If this season feels heavy for you, take heart: the message of Christmas is a story of light piercing through the darkest of times.
His Birth in the Midst of Darkness
The world into which Jesus was born was far from serene. It was a time of political oppression, social upheaval, and personal uncertainty for His earthly parents, Mary and Joseph. Imagine Joseph’s turmoil when he learned Mary was pregnant, knowing the child wasn’t his. Yet, in the middle of his fear and confusion, the angel of the Lord spoke to him in a dream:
"Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for He who is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. She will bear a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins." (Matthew 1:20-21 MEV)
This wasn’t just an announcement of a miraculous birth. It was the fulfillment of an ancient promise: “They shall call His name Immanuel,” which is interpreted, “God with us.” (Matthew 1:23 MEV)
Even in a time of darkness, God brought the ultimate light into the world through His Son, Jesus.
The Light That Changed the World
Jesus didn’t just arrive in the darkness; He became the light that dispelled it. In John 8:12, He declares: “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me shall not walk in the darkness, but shall have the light of life.”
The light of Christ wasn’t temporary. His life, death, and resurrection shattered the power of sin and death forever. His presence brought hope to the hopeless, healing to the broken, and salvation to all who would receive it.
This light didn’t stop shining after His time on earth. It continues to illuminate the world, even today.
We Are Called to Be His Light
The beauty of Jesus’ light is that it now shines through us. In Matthew 5:14-16, Jesus said:
"You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do men light a candle and put it under a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven."
As followers of Christ, we are His ambassadors in this world. Through our words, actions, and love, we reflect His light to those around us. Whether it’s comforting someone in grief, meeting the needs of the poor, or simply sharing the joy of Christ, we carry the light of life into the darkest places.
A Prayer for Light This Christmas
If all you want for Christmas is to find light in the darkness, know that Jesus has already provided it. Whether your darkness is loneliness, loss, or a deep ache for something more, His light is available to you.
This Christmas, may we all embrace the gift of Jesus, the light of the world. And may we let His light shine through us, bringing hope, healing, and joy to those around us.
Let us celebrate the truth that the darkness can never overcome His light. Because of Jesus, even the darkest night is filled with the promise of a brighter day.
May your Christmas be filled with the hope and joy that only Jesus can bring.
https://substack.com/@poetpastor/note/p-160745983?r=5gejob&utm_medium=ios&utm_source=notes-share-action