“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
Light is important to us. It helps us see better; with a flip of a switch we can illuminate a dark room. Light helps things grow and sustains life. That’s why we plant our gardens in sunny locations, the sun-light helps the seeds grow and feeds the green leaves. Without the warmth of sunlight planet earth would cease to exist too. All life forms need light to flourish. Studies have shown that being in sunlight helps lessen depression; it also seems to gives more energy, and, it just makes us feel better.
What did Jesus mean when He called Himself “the light of the world”? The one that created the light (sun, moon and stars) did so because He knew what we needed in order to live. But Jesus is talking about something that goes much deeper than just existing. The light that He gives is an eternal light, a light that will illuminate our hearts in ways we never thought possible. The dark places in our lives will be replaced with love, joy and hope. The warmth of His light will fill us up, help us to love others, and cause us to shine for Him by sharing His plan of salvation with the lost.
Jesus is the Light in this weary world! His light can wipe out all of our darkness. His light gives forgiveness of sins and promises eternal life in His presence where there will be no need of the sun (Revelation 21:23). There we will bask in the light of the glory of God and Jesus.
What a wonderful day that will be! But until then, Jesus calls us to follow His Light.