The Light of Christmas

From my earliest childhood memories, I can remember my fascination with Christmas lights. With anticipation that was hard to keep bottled up, I would look forward to stringing the Christmas lights on the tree. We didn’t do many outdoor lights in our home growing up, but I couldn’t wait to see the downtown streets all decorated for the holidays and outdoor lights go up on some of the finest houses in town. In the earliest days of my memories, I remember those large multi-colored bulbs that illuminated the landscape. I recall riding in the car as we drove around town looking at decorated houses, whether it was the illuminated homes on “Flagpole Hill” or the Disney characters on Brookpark Rd. My own children can probably tell you the many times I drove them around my hometown of Marion, Ohio to see the Christmas lights. Even though I have seen them many times before, I still look forward to the opportunity of seeing them again.

As we enter the season of Advent I want to invite you to join us as we journey together through the book of Isaiah to experience the “Light of Christmas” all over again. In a world that often seems to be a very dark place in which we live, we can say, “Let There Be Light.” The light of Christmas I am referring to is not found on a strand of Christmas lights. It was found in a lowly manger by the shepherds as they were guided by the Star of Bethlehem. The prophet Isaiah points us toward this light as we read in chapter nine,

“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light;

on those living in the land of deep darkness, a light has dawned.

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be upon his shoulders.

And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end.”

The light Isaiah speaks of is Jesus Christ. Jesus himself said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12. Although the world has become a dark place to live, we have Jesus to guide us through the streets of our lives. Even though we have seen Him before, we need to see Him again. As we celebrate this season of Advent, let us eagerly await with child like wonder the coming of the Christ Child, the light of Christmas. In a world where people are walking in darkness, let us proclaim once again for all to hear, “Let There Be Light!”

Wishing You All A Wondrous Christmas!

Pastor Kevin, Michi & Family