Dear Friend,
I write this correspondence as we are nearing the climax of the Advent season and preparing to celebrate lighting the final candle – the candle representing Jesus, the Light of the world. Lighting a candle is an appropriate metaphor for the King. John 8:12 (ESV) says, “Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’” This light He refers to is the light of His Truth, the light of His Word, and the light of eternal Life. But Jesus also referred to us as light. He tells us in Matthew 5:14-16 (NASB), “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Your light must shine before people in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.”
When you allow Jesus to permeate your whole being and radically fill your life with His love, grace, and presence, you cannot help but radiate His light – a light that everyone can see. Sadly, too many people around us are devoid of the light of Jesus. It is up to each of us to share the light we have found in Him.
On our own we can never be light, but we have direct access to the flame and the source of light, our Savior, Jesus. Now go shine!
Praising Emmanuel,