The Light Has Come

The birth of Jesus, the light of the world, shows he is a light for revelation to the Gentiles (Luke 2:32). The whole world can walk in light, those who have been in darkness.

"Advent is a journey towards Bethlehem. May we let ourselves be drawn by the light of God made man." - Pope Francis

Not only does advent focus on the first coming of Jesus, but the advent themes focus on the "comings" of Christ: his first coming in Bethlehem, as we mentioned, his continued ‘coming’ into our hearts, and his future Second Coming that we anticipate to see in the future.

Today we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ as the true light of ALL mankind.

He is the only light that brings us into connection with the Father. He is the great lighthouse, if you will! When we see his light we experience peace in the storm, joy that we can see ahead and know the Father loved us enough to send the one who would be the light to lead us home. He is the fulfillment of all the prophesies and the longing of mankind – He is the light of the world.

Today we celebrate the promise fulfilled. Every promise of the first coming of Christ in the Old Testament was fulfilled over 2000 years ago, that is over 300 prophecies. Take a minute today to process that; to honour and celebrate the coming of the light to all people on earth. Now we are no longer in darkness, we can have the light of God in us!

There was a man in Jerusalem, Simeon, who was waiting and expecting the light and the glory of Israel to be born. Imagine this moment when that expectation and waiting was fulfilled, when Jesus as a baby was presented to the temple, and Simeon able to hold Jesus in his arms, praising God!

That is the hope of Christmas morning, when the light has come and we can rejoice. Not just a promise to Israel but a promise to all nations of light, love, peace and joy!

Prayer Point:

Heavenly Father, we thank you for Jesus and his birth. Thank you for sending the light of the world in humility, as our Saviour and an example and encouragement to all of us. Thank you for calling us worthy, and for the invitation to sit at your table. Help us to keep our eyes and hearts open to those around us who may be lost, lonely and looking for a seat at a table; may we be the ones to extend the invitation. Amen.