In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

There was a man sent from God whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.

The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God.

JOHN 1:4–13

 

Reflection

The hope we've been reflecting on these last five days isn't abstract: it was embodied in Jesus, the human who was fully God. For the next few days, we'll reflect on the wonderful person of Christ and what we learn about God through him.

When you're a small child, the last few days before Christmas can feel like a barefoot march through the Gobi Desert, each minute impossibly elongated by impatience. Imagine, then, what it must have been like for the generations after Isaiah's first audience – a nation that had to wait 700 years for the savior he so vividly described.

But then, at the right moment, into the darkness came the light. Jesus, light of the world, Son of God, Prince of Peace, Messiah, the one through whom all things were made, the one who can make us children of the Most High.

But he was not recognised or received by all. We know that. We are surrounded by people who do not believe in his name, who, in fact, regularly use his name as a swear word. While this can be depressing, here are three reasons for hope. Firstly, darkness will never defeat the light (verse 4). Secondly, the invitation to believe is for all (verse 7). Thirdly, John witnessed and brought many to Christ (Mark 1:5). In the places where we regularly spend time with those who don't follow Jesus – our 'frontlines' – we have the opportunity to do the same.

Prayer 

Thank you, Lord God, for opening my eyes to the light that is life – Jesus Christ. Help me point others to that light, so they may be drawn to believe in you too. I pray now for [name(s)].