The older I get, the more time it takes for my eyes to adjust to darkness. It takes time to notice that even in the darkness light filters through for vision to be restored. Today we celebrate the dawning of God’s light shining through the darkness. We remember the birth of a vulnerable child. Angels sang, shepherds gathered, and 12 days later three Wise men came to see the child Messiah born in the stable. That private family event of childbirth for Mary and Joseph has been made public for all generations as God’s Light illumines the dark places within our lives and throughout the world. As disillusionment, grief, or sorrow burrow within, or wars rage, injustice and oppression continue, I wonder how our spiritual eyesight adjusts to seeing the dawning of Christmas Light this day.
Do we notice the little ways that God’s love of Presence is shared? Do we become that Presence of God love for others as we gather with family and friends? Through the lonely moments of Christmas cheer how do you experience the dawning of God’s new Light?
The Scripture
Confusion, darkness, or sorrow is not where God intends to leave God’s people. The Israelites heard this as the prophet Isaiah proclaimed. Isaiah 9:2 states:
“The people who walked in darkness
have seen a great light;
those who lived in a land of deep darkness—
on them light has shined.”
Marvelous hope, joy, love, and peace prevail this and each day! The Word of God which created all of creation and every living thing upon the earth is the Light incarnate. My favorite Christmas Scripture shines light even through humanities disorientation and confusion. John 1:5 highlights:
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overtake it.”
No matter what is going on within and around us because Jesus was born the darkness will not overtake you or me, not even the world.
Today’s Prayer Practice
As the Christmas festivities draw to a close this evening, light a single candle in your darkened room. Celebrate in prayer the Light that overcomes disorientation and darkness. You may desire to pray considering:
- How you experience God’s Light within your life.
- How when visiting others your shared presence becomes a light of God bringing joy to others.
- How God is greater than any human evils around the world.
- Celebrate the Light of Christ illuming the world this day.
Enjoy praying.
