“The Light of the World”
John 8:12 :: December 22, 2024
Week #4: “The Light of Joy”
“Advent” means “coming.” Christmas is coming. Jesus has come and is coming again.
This year, as we light each Advent Candle, we are reflecting together on the many beautiful ways that Jesus is “The Light of the World.” In John chapter 8, verse 12, we read:
[READ JOHN 8:12.]
Our first candle was a candle of hope.
[LIGHT FIRST CANDLE AGAIN.]
Jesus stepped into the dark despair of our world and proclaimed that the shadow would not last. Because Jesus has come, hope has arrived.
[LIGHT SECOND CANDLE AGAIN.]
Our second candle was a candle of purity. As “Love's pure light,” Jesus had no darkness in Him and gave Himself up for us so that we, too, can walk in the light of holiness.
[LIGHT THIRD CANDLE AGAIN.]
Our third candle was a candle of guidance. God has not left His people to stumble and become lost forever. Jesus came to clearly light our way.
[LIGHT FOURTH CANDLE.]
Our fourth candle is a candle of joyful worship. Whenever a light shines in the darkness, there comes a thrill of happiness. Fear, despair, emptiness, and evil must flee. The light of a candle dances with beauty and power lifting the heart. Light is faithful, joyful, and triumphant.
May this candle shine to remind us that the coming of Jesus is “good news of great joy” for all of God’s people. (See Luke 2:10-11.)
As the carol sings:
“Hail the heav'n-born Prince of Peace!
Hail the Sun of Righteousness!
Light and life to all He brings,
Ris'n with healing in His wings.
'Glory to the newborn king!’” (“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” Charles Wesley)
Jesus is the Light of the World.
***
Photo credit: Jonas Von Werne.
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