January 20

The Light of the World

to shine on those who live in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace. — Luke 1:79 BSB

Imagine if the sun never rose again, and the light of every star went out—what a dark, dreary world it would be! This is how the world would be without Christ: a place of utter darkness and the shadow of death, without any light to guide, cheer, or bring joy.

Christ is the Light. Think of all the ways light affects us! It brightens our days, reveals beauty around us, and gives us life. Without light, nothing would grow or thrive, and there would be no color or beauty. Christ’s light does the same for our souls. His love shines over us, giving us spiritual life and growth. Every bit of hope we have is a ray of His light. Just as light gives joy to a prisoner in darkness, Christ’s mercy brings joy to a guilty soul. The light of the Gospel brings cheer and hope to the mourner, the poor, and the troubled.

Isn’t it strange that anyone would refuse this light? If someone chose to live in a dark cave, using only dim candles to light their way when they could step outside into the sunlight, we would think they were out of their mind. But what about those who choose to live in the darkness of sin, relying on the flickering lights of false hope instead of turning to Christ? There are many such people. They follow fleeting, deceptive lights instead of the true Light.