John 9:5; 8:12 "But while I am here in the world, I am the light of the world." Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, "I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won't have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life."
Matthew 5:14-16 "You are the light of the world--like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father." NLT
Lord, As I sit at my kitchen table this morning with the three candles burning, the Christmas tree and the mantle lighted in the living room, I know that my favorite part of our Christmas celebration is not the gifts, busyness, baking, parties, etc.,it is the Christmas lights. It reminds me that You are the "light of the World" and that we are to be light to others.
It was very dark this morning when I awoke at 6 AM. It seemed cold and uncaring that I was up and would be getting ready for work. I plugged in the Christmas lights in the living room and immediately the mood changed. It was suddenly warm, friendly, and comforting. In the kitchen, instead of turning on the big light, I let the candles on the table. It transformed the "working" part of our home into a gentle resting place of peace with You.
The world outside is busy, hectic, and cold this time of year...but here in this "sanctuary" with You and the lights it is peaceful, warm, and wonderfully transformed. You came into the world to bring light to dis-spell the the darkness, peace in the storms of life, and comfort for the harried hurting souls.
Although there are other Christmas lights inside and outside most American homes at Christmas time, I fear they are not seeing the true Light. Towns, businesses are all "decked out", but the purpose is not to bring You and Your truth into their abodes, but something more human they call the "Spirit of Christmas". They hope it will bring in business and attempt to get people to act not so much like the sinners they are, but to be more loving and kind to each other. In all of that they miss YOU! the "Christmas" songs are all about snow, friends, and references to Santa Claus or sleigh rides.
All I have to do is to read the headlines in the morning paper to know that You are not yet the ruler of this dark world and it desperately needs Your LIGHT!
Lord, I am so unworthy that You came and shone Your Light into my dark and miserable soul, but am eternally grateful that You gave me grace, mercy, and forgiveness! That is the best year around Christmas gift of all. Thank You, Lord Jesus!
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