Monday, December 12, 2016

Monday December 12 Children of the Light

Our theme for this third week of advent is SEE.
Jesus replied, “My light will shine for you just a little longer. Walk in the light while you can, so the darkness will not overtake you. Those who walk in the darkness cannot see where they are going. Put your trust in the light while there is still time; then you will become children of the light.” --John 12:35-36 NLT

Though He spoke these words to the disciples near the end of His time on earth, they remain good words for His disciples today to hear.  Everyone has had the experience of trying to walk in the dark at one time or another.  We may be on a familiar path and think we know our way but our eyes play tricks on us. Familiar and harmless objects may loom threatening in the cover of darkness. Unseen obstacles can trip us or hurt us and it is easy to take a wrong turn or get off course completely when there is no light to guide our paths. In a greater way, if we walk in a state of spiritual darkness we cannot see with the eyes of our hearts. We may fear that which is of no consequence to children of God.  Small things which should be easily avoided may get in the way and trip us up. And we can very easily get on a wrong path leading to a place of spiritual danger simply because we cannot see. Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”John 8:12 NLT. Like a beacon in the night, Jesus shines brightly to light our way and guide us safely home to our Father who waits anxiously for our return. God placed a star in the sky to lead shepherds and wise men to the Christ Child. Jesus Himself is now the star that lights our way safely home to our Father. And as we step out of the darkness and into that glorious light, Jesus tells us we become children of the light,  able to reflect it back into a dark world around us that others might also see and find their way home. Step into the light that you may see!

Prayer
Father God, we love you and give all our thanks that You have seen fit to not leave us struggling in darkness, but have sent Your Son, our Lord, Jesus Christ to light the way for us. Just as those long ago shepherds were drawn to the light of the star, draw us, each one, to the Light of the world. Help, us we pray, to step away from whatever darkness may be holding us and blinding us into the light where we can see your love for us and move fearlessly. We ask in His glorious name. AMEN!

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