While the world is preoccupied with preparing for the merriment of the winter holidays, Christians enter the Season of Advent. Advent commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and His entry into our lives, while preparing for His second coming as our triumphant King.

The birth of baby Jesus was the arrival of God in a human body (Colossians 2:9). Jesus is the Light of the world (John 8:12). His life shines of God’s wisdom and gives everyone the opportunity to be reunited with God (1 Corinthians 1:30). By accepting the gift of Jesus’s life, we receive all of God’s riches. The Holy Spirit is foremost among those riches, and He makes us more like Christ every day so that we too become light and shine.

In a world where God is denied and ideas and actions that oppose God’s nature are vigorously promoted, people may feel tossed about or lost. Yet, we can find a steady anchor by embracing Jesus, the Light. God’s command to begin creation was: “Let there be Light!” It expresses that light, not darkness, is God’s will for His creation which includes mankind. We can therefore find peace when we align our thoughts and actions with God’s Word so that we shine God’s glory.

Embracing God’s Light gives us great hope because He steers us to look forward to the New Jerusalem where God will live in the midst of His people (Revelation 21:3). “There will be no need for lamps or sun—for the Lord God will shine on them” (Revelation 22:5). “He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain” (Revelation 21:4). God’s Light is the greatest gift of all!
As we enjoy the festive lights of the Holiday season may they cue us to remember and embrace the true Light, Jesus Christ!

Advent begins Sunday December 3, 2023. Share your reflections on Advent at our PenTab FB page.

By Aneisha Collins-Fairclough