Light

Light is a pretty cool thing.  From a science perspective, it is without rival.  Light and dark are not opposites, rather darkness is simply the absence of light.  If light and dark were to have a fight, light would win.  Every time.  Imagine an entire Edward Jones Dome full of darkness.  Light one candle in that dome and you could see it from anywhere in that enormous place.  Light makes itself present.  It takes effort to hide light.

Light is pretty is a pretty important part of the Christmas season.  Candle-light services are popular.  Advent wreaths progress with light until Christmas.  Christmas lights decorate many houses and businesses.  It's Biblical.  John wrote that about Jesus coming into the world at Christmas time and said, "The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world."  Isaiah said "The people walking in darkness have seen a great light."  A little while later in Isaiah chapter 9 we have the Christmas verses, "For unto us a child is born."

Jesus is the light.  By him being present in our lives, we shine forth, as well.  This is why Jesus says,

Matthew 5:16
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.


Jesus did not say that you might have the opportunity to be the light if you work really hard at it.  You are the light of the world, so let those lights shine for the right reasons.  Love shines bright.  Let it shine.

How do you shine?  By living differently than our dark world.  By looking to follow the heart of God and not just the letter of the law.  Jesus went on to say,

^{Matthew 5:43-44
43} “You Matthew 5:43-44have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ ⁴⁴ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you

Love shines bright.  Let it shine.