“The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up.” (Mat 4:16 KJV)
We who enjoy the blessing of electricity cannot imagine what it would be like without light. Poorly lit homes. No convenient switches on the wall. Having to keep matches in a conspicuous place in case a light was needed. Keeping smelly, messy lamp oil in good supply. Soot on the ceiling and walls. No exterior lights. Needing a lamp to go to the outhouse.
Prior to that first Christmas, the people of Israel and the world sat in a darkness that enveloped the soul. Certainly they had some form of physical light to aide them where needed, but their spirits floundered in spiritual darkness without hope. The shadow of death hung heavy all around them.
Then a miracle happened. Out on a Bethlehem hillside a few shepherds sat contemplating the night sky, perhaps counting the stars. Suddenly the angel of the Lord appeared to them, which was miraculous enough, but he told them of a greater miracle that had occurred earlier that day.
A light had sprung up in their dark world. The shadow of death was so scared it was running away. The shepherds of course were so afraid and amazed that they couldn’t see the light. So the angel had to tell where to look and how to find the light.
“And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger” (Luke 2:12 KJV).
Yes, the best gift that mankind could receive came disguised as a tiny baby. The shepherd’s urgent seeking showed us that searching hearts will always find God’s light to lead them out of darkness. Today, we can all say, “Glory to God in the highest” for lighting our darkness.
Dear Father, thank you for the light that brings hope and joy to our generation. Enable us to reflect your light in our world. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be encouraged today in the light of the Savior,