Often times we focus on all the ‘lights’
of Christmas and there is much to share about various lights. However, The Lord
seemed to have turned my thinking only to God’s Eternal LIGHT -Jesus, Light of
the World. Today I’d like to focus on our responsibility, as Children of God,
to reflect His LIGHT into the world in which we live,
work and play. It seems this is getting harder every day and many are
ridiculed, persecuted and martyred for sharing the Love of God with others.
Scriptures: “If we walk in the LIGHT, as He
is in the LIGHT, we have fellowship with one another…” (I John 1:7).
“Ye are the Light of the world….let your light so shine before men that they
may see your good deeds and praise your Father in Heaven.” (Matthew
5:14, 16).
Jesus, Creator, LIGHT of the
world, loved us so much that He spent nine months in the darkness of his
mother’s womb, to become one of us, that He might vanquish the darkness of sin
and its penalty of death, forever! He left the glorious light to dwell with humanity.
The Old Testament Scriptures foretold of
the Light to come and, the Light of Glory and an especially
bright Star announced his birth to mankind. His disciples, chosen to
share his Kingdom of God principles, listened to his teaching, witnessed his
miracles and interacted with him as a friend. Can you imagine the WOW
factor when Peter, James and John saw HIS LIGHT at the Mount
of Transfiguration? Radiant pure LIGHT!
For several years we attended a large Church
that did a presentation near Resurrection Sunday. I will never forget the
first presentation in the new Sanctuary, which was designed to include these
presentations. The brilliance of the light used as Jesus came forth from
the tomb – blinding! I often wonder what kind of JESUS LIGHT others
see in me. Wherever light goes, darkness has to flee! JESUS’ LIGHT in me
also chases darkness - if I let it shine! God inhabits the praises of His
people. (Ps 33:2). do you praise him in ALL things?
As Believers we are drawn to the LIGHT.
But we are also challenged by Jesus to reflect His LIGHT to
others. We are the only JESUS-LIGHT many people see.
Does the LIGHT of His Word light your path? Control your
tongue and your actions? Do others see pure LIGHT in
your life? Or is it somewhat dimmed – by not reading or walking in his
Word? Not talking to Him in prayer? Not being obedient to what He
asks us to do? Sharing with poor and needy? (Matthew 25:40)
Today, our culture is trying continuously to put out God’s light: We have an
overkill of the world’s lights and bangles; morning prayer and Bible reading
has been taken out of schools; ‘In God We Trust’ attempted to be removed
from coins; The name of Jesus is not allowed in some formal places and military
prayers - just to name a few issues. And, of course, now at
Christmas, we notice the hassle about Nativity Scenes - or anything
related. at this time of year. Blue is the political correct color for
Christmas – I prefer red, green, and gold!
Sooo,
dear ones, Let the lights of Christmas remind you to let the LIGHT of
JESUS be reflected in your face, in your words, and actions.
Jesus said that we are ‘The Light of the world’. We are not to hide our
light under a basket – but set it on a hilltop for all to see. Even though we
live in a fallen world, the LIGHT of God is not
extinguished. Be LIGHT –BEARERS, reflectors of
His character and, as our Pastor reminded us, "Share the good
tidings of great joy!" (Luke 2:10)
Blessings
Gma
PS This is one of
Gramps favorite songs. Can be heard as
he drives the tractor or works out doors.
He does have a good voice and sang in the College Choir.
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