ADVENT I
November 29, 2020
“From Darkness Into Light”
“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shined.” Isaiah 9:2
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:5
Our everyday language is filled with expressions using the images of darkness and light. After all, we consider being enlightened as a positive quality, and being in the dark as basically clueless as to what’s going on. We naturally gravitate to light, the brightness and warmth that we feel from the sun or a cozy fire, but we’re hesitant to walk into a dark, unknown place. It’s no wonder that tales and legends from ancient times, as well as the Bible, use the imagery of light and dark to describe the struggle between good and evil. The prophecy of Isaiah promises a “great light” to the people who were living with little hope, struggling to find peace and prosperity, and yearning for a king who would bring them out of this darkness. The hoped-for king would bring endless peace, ruling with justice and righteousness.
The Gospel of John opens with poetic, powerful statements, stating Jesus’ oneness with God, the Word in human form. Chapter 1:3b, 4 : “What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people.” Life does not exist without light, and as our bodies cannot exist in a dark environment, neither can our souls. The light and the brightness of Jesus leads us into relationship with him, and an understanding of how to live lives that reflect his love.
Throughout his ministry, Jesus taught that all who follow him are to be lights in the world. The Gospel of Matthew 5:14, 16: “You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. . . Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” This is no small task, and yet what a privilege it is to be called to bring light to those whose spirits are in a dark place. What might seem like a small gesture may be just what brings a ray of light to someone because it’s exactly what they need. That’s where we are doing what we can, and God does the rest.
The four weeks of Advent now begin, and we will hear the voices of the prophets, who spoke of the Chosen One of God who would bring light and life into a world of darkness. Continuing the story, the Gospels will tell us of the fulfillment of those prophecies, and the darkness of our spirits will find light in a stable.
Grateful for the promises fulfilled,
Your friend in Christ,
Mary Rogers