Jesus, the Light of the World!

Saturday, December 18, 2021

Last Sunday evening we participated in the Christmas celebration, mom and dad’s church put on for the public, in hopes to reach many who normally don’t go to church, especially the children. There were all different types of activity: snacks, crafts, games… Tim and I had the best job, we had a story time booth where we shared the Christmas story to young and old alike. In that two-hour span, we told the story at least 7 times. I lost count. Our theme was Jesus, the Light of the World.

I never really thought of it before, but God created light before He even created the world!! Genesis 1:3-4 says, “And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. And God saw that the light was good. And God separated the light from the darkness.” I love how Tim explained it to the children (and adults): “It was as if God stepped into His creation, as the only light source at that time, and was the light!” We know that God is light for Revelation tells us there will be no need of the sun in heaven because light will shine from Him. Jesus, Himself, said He is “the light of the world.” (John 8:12).

What does light do? It dispels darkness.

I found this poem in my collection. The author is unknown. Where I found the poem escapes me, but it speaks clearly of what God’s light does in the world:

Christmas
If there had been no Christmas morn,
No Christ Child in a manger born,
No shepherds watching in the night,
No angels song, no star of light,
Then there would be no hope today
for this old world where sin holds sway.

No peace for souls weighed down with sin,
No deep abiding joy within,
No burdens lifted by His grace,
No strength to run life’s weary race,
No sorrows eased, no tempests quelled,
No fears dispersed, no doubts dispelled.

No song of praise, no answered prayer,
No loving Lord to guide and care:
But friend, there was a Christmas morn.
When Christ, the Son of God, was born.
Oh, Hallelujah, praise His name,
Hope lies today because He came!
(author unknown)

Thank You, Lord Jesus, that You are the Light of the world! Thank You, that You came into the darkness and brought light! If You had not come, we would have no hope.

Speaking of light, Tim and I found a beautiful “get away” place: Rock City, GA. We went there this week at night to see the Christmas lights they are famous for. Wow, it was far better than we even imagined. The very first display you go to is the Christmas story! Here are a few pictures from that magical night:

Even in the darkness, we could tell Rock City was a fascinating place. As a result, we definitely wanted to see the place during the day. A few days later we went back with mom and dad and were so glad we did. Here is a taste of that visit. Even on a very cloudy day it was spectacular.

Yes, we will definitely be back there.

Another BIG event this past week, we helped dad Dekle celebrate his 75th birthday! So grateful for parents who demonstrate constantly through their lives, Jesus as the Light of the world!

May you meditate on Jesus, the Light of the world in these days leading up to Christmas.

Blessings, mari