I am the light of the world
When Jesus spoke again to the people, he 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
Light in the Midst of Darkness
This world is full of darkness. It’s under the temporary management of the prince of darkness, the devil. And it’s evident from the dark thoughts we have, the dark things we hear in the news, and the dark fears that try to crawl up our back and get their hands on us. And we each have a dark side that no one else sees—a sinful side that is capable of dark things.
But when we follow Jesus, the darkness retreats. He is the Light of the world. We read from Isaiah chapter 9: “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light…For to us a child is born!” Jesus came into our dark world to give us the light of God’s saving truth. He embodied light as the Son of God in human flesh and blood. He spoke light as he taught the good news of God’s love. He drove back the darkness with miracles of healing and kindness. So when he died, the sun itself turned dark.
But the light of life shone in the tomb’s darkness. Jesus lived again! Jesus destroyed death and brought life and immortality to light. Through Jesus, we can stand in the light of God’s presence. Sin is forgiven. Death is defeated.
The darkness is still there: dark thoughts, dark fears, dark events that happen in a dark world. But when we follow Jesus in faith, we don’t walk in darkness. We live in confidence and hope.
We have the light of life. A life illuminated by Jesus’ death and resurrection. A life lit up with hope in God’s loving promises. A life shining with perfect peace and joy in heaven.
