Be the light.

We live in a world that can seem very dark at times. The hatred, violence, injustice, conflict, exhaustion, and battles we fight can make this world seem like a dull, gloomy, and lonely place to live. However, on this very Christmas Day, Jesus was born into this world as the light. His light shines for us, but he also teaches us how to become that very same light to help guide others.

During the Christmas Eve Church service last night, a verse really stuck out to me and remained in my mind and in my heart. It comes from John 1: 4–5 and it says: “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.” This verse displays Jesus as the light and the life, but it also reminds us that God is greater than the darkness. His light, the good of this world, “shines in the darkness,” and if we look close enough we can still see the light in our world despite all the bad. No matter how brutal and horrible this world can seem, the “darkness has not overcome” the light of this world, that light being the love of Jesus Christ and the love we all share as children of God.

John 8:12 also explains Jesus as the light as he quotes: “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” Once again, we are reminded of his light which guides us through what would otherwise be a very dark, scary, and lonely life. When we turn to Christ and let him guide the way, we will never fight any battle alone.

In a similar way to how Jesus came to Earth to be our guiding light, we are called to also become the light for others. One of my favorite quotes comes from Amanda Gorman’s poem, “The Hill We Climb,” as she states: “For there is always light, if only we’re brave enough to see it. If only we’re brave enough to be it.” Here, she is challenging us to be the light, to be the change we wish to see in this world. If we are brave enough to follow in Jesus’ footsteps and overcome the darkness of this world, we could come together and live in harmony rather than hatred. We can reverse the trend of a seemingly dark world into one that radiates kindness, compassion, beauty, love, and unity. We can actively be the light of Christ, helping to bring others out of the darkness and towards His everlasting love and light.

Be the light. Just as the lights of a Christmas tree light up a dark room, just as the life of Jesus lit up a dark world. You too, can be the light. You too, can light up this world. You too, have the power to radiate the love of God. When people look at you, listen to you speak, and watch you interact with others, I hope they see the light shining through you. At least that’s what I hope people think of when they think of me. Today I want you to work towards being the light for others. I want you to love, laugh, pray, praise, and appreciate the people, the gifts, the memories, and most importantly His life and light which is ultimately the reason we are celebrating. Be the light.

Xoxo,

Kaci