Christmas Advent Bible Reading Plan: Jesus Is BornUkázka

## To Bring Light Light to a World in Darkness Shadows follow us everywhere. Literally. We can also become accustomed to the shadows in our lives too. That feeling that something bad is about to happen. Maybe it's an impending illness, a loss of control, or just that knot in your stomach that is all too familiar. We’ve all been in the shadows, the places where we wonder if God is even there. There are times when darkness is all-consuming. These experiences remind us that we live in a fallen and broken world. When Isaiah prophesied to Israel, they lived in the Assyrian empire's shadow. How did they feel when he told them, “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light” (Isaiah 9:2). Did they know they were in darkness? Did they even know they needed light? When he continued, “a light has dawned on those living in the land of darkness,” did they realise he was talking about them? John said something similar. Having actually walked alongside the Light of the World, he described Jesus this way, “In Him was life, and that life was the light of men. That light shines in the darkness, and yet the darkness did not overcome it.” (John 1:5) Have you ever felt overcome by the darkness before? The good news is that the True Light has already come into the world—just as John testified. Just as Isaiah promised. Because of that baby born in Bethlehem, we no longer have to live in darkness. The Apostle Paul encourages us, that we are called to “live as children of light” (Ephesians 5:8). Today, if you feel overwhelmed by despair, dread or pain, or maybe there are a few shadows that have followed you for some time, take a moment right now to invite Jesus, the True Light, into those areas. Allow Him to meet you right in your point of need. Prayer God, thank you that you are the light in my world today. I invite you into the dark places of my life - my fears, disappointments, pain, and insecurity. Shine Your light into those places and help me to walk as a child of light today. In Jesus' name, Amen.