Jesus said, “I am the light of the world; he who follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12
Today marks the first Sunday in Advent. In definition the word advent means arrival. In the church Advent is a time to prepare once again for the celebration of the birth of Christ. It is the four Sundays leading up to Christmas.
Today we heard that Jesus came to be a light in a dark world. What wonderful news this must have been for people of long ago, — the poor, the sick, the hurting, the lonely. They finally had hope and joy; and someone was coming that really cared about THEM! Someone that could free them from the bondages of their everyday struggles.
The same is true today. We still have those that are poor, sick, hurting, lonely and so much more. This same Jesus comes to individuals today too! In loving kindness He gives us joy in our hearts and peace in our lives. He heals the sick and comforts those that are hurting or lonely.
Isaiah 61 foretold this about Jesus, and Jesus Himself quotes that same scripture in Luke 4:18-19, “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoner and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”
Yes, Jesus’ birth was a blessing for people of long ago, but we today continue to be blessed by His birth. Jesus came to seek and save, and through Him we can have salvation and experience real love.
Let’s share that good news with others.