Three Years in 30 Days: Jesus' Life and MissionSample

I am … the light

"Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘I am the light of the world.’” (John 8:12 ESV)

In Exodus 3:13, God reveals Himself to Moses as “I am.” Moses was chosen by God to lead his people out of Egypt. He was very uncertain about the role God wanted him to play. Moses asked God what he should say when his people asked who had sent him. God's answer was, that He is the God who always was and always will be. (Exodus 3)

Jesus referred to himself in the same way: "I am". In this way, Jesus showed His connection to God. He was equal to God. Jesus made the statement “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12 ESV) in a part of the temple where candles were burning. These candles were a symbol of the pillar of fire with which God led the people of Israel through the desert (Exodus 13:21-22). This pillar of fire confirmed the Israelites' belief that God was with them. His light showed them the way and protected the people. Jesus is the light that leads people to God. He is the reliable light that keeps us on the right path and shows us the way when it is dark around us.

Read John 1:1-5 and 8:12.

• Do you allow Jesus to shine His light in your life?
• How does that affect your life?

Tip: light a candle or another small light in the dark. Think about how Jesus wants to illuminate your life.