Read a thoughtful Christmas reflection by guest contributor, Valerie Morse.
“In him was life and that life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it.” (John 1:4-5)
Christmas is a time of brightness. As the winter season brings with it days that are short with ever increasing darkness, the Christmas lights on every household tree, along with those on the eaves and bushes of houses, push back the doldrums of winter darkness.
The thought occurred to me that if there was a contest between the strength of darkness over light, the light would be victorious every time. Light always expels darkness, and not only can the darkness not expel the light…even as the dark grows deeper and blacker, it only causes the light to shine more brightly!
What a comforting thought that is, as we sometimes fear that the world is growing darker with each day. As the dark increases, the light of Christ can only shine brighter and stronger. One of Jesus’ titles is ‘Light of the World’. His very name causes an elation of hope and comfort during these times…and particularly at this time of year when our hearts are reminded of this sure hope…the Light who actually entered into this world that he had created. And why? – To share the light of salvation with the ‘whosoever’ that would receive him into their hearts and lives.
What is truly amazing, is that, although he left this earth, his light still shines in every heart that welcomes him in…and the darkness cannot extinguish it. So, as we gather together, whether in our homes or our churches, may we with grateful hearts , rejoice that our Light has come…Emmanuel…God with us!
Merry Christmas, everyone!
