Monday, December 16, 2024
Scripture: Isaiah 9:2-7
Darkness. Chances are, you have never truly experienced complete darkness. Consider the various sources of light that glow around your home at night. Even in remote areas, far from cities and towns, we still benefit from the illumination of stars and the moon. However, when I was young, I had the opportunity to experience complete darkness during a family trip to Luray Caverns in Virginia. At over 160 feet below ground, or about 16 stories, we paused on the lighted pathway as the lights were turned off. The experience was eerie, frightening, and fascinating all at once. The absence of light was so profound that I couldn’t believe my eyes were open. It left me feeling helpless and completely out of control, a moment indelibly etched in my memory.
In the Bible, we encounter many verses about darkness, often in association with light. In the very first chapter, we learn that God’s first act of creation was to bring light into the universe. God’s presence is linked to light, while His absence, or more accurately, our separation from Him, is associated with darkness.
Today’s scripture features the prophet Isaiah, who foretells the coming light for a people walking in darkness—people separated from God. We now know that this light is Christ, who came to bridge that separation, to be WITH us—Emmanuel. No darkness can withstand the light of Christ. As it says in John 1:5, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
Are there areas in your life where you find yourself wandering in darkness? Do you feel separated from God? Christmas brings good news: Jesus has come to be WITH you. His light is present, and you do not need to be alone. As you celebrate the holiday this year, take notice of the lights around you. Each time you do, remember that Jesus is there.
“You, Lord, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light.” —Psalm 18:28
For additional meditation, contemplate the lyrics of the song “Light of the World,” by Lauren Daigle
Todd Thornton is a child of God hoping for presence this year instead of presents.