For most people Christmas is a time of delight, of bright lights, gaily wrapped packages, hot chocolate and mistletoe. It is a time for rejoicing and celebration, a time for good food and good times with family and friends.
Unfortunately, for many of us, the brightness of the lights and the joy of the season are dimmed by the realization of all we have lost in the past year. Memories of friends and family who have died, shattered dreams, plans gone awry, all combine to temper our joy and leave us wandering in the dark.
My family and I can definitely relate. The death of my cousin, Benji Sowers and later my father, Jay Edison, were double blows which left us reeling, questioning, dazed by the senselessness of it all. Some days it was a challenge just to put one foot in front of the other.
I know many of you have faced similar feelings in the last year, but I have good news! “Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes in the morning.” (Psalm 30:5 NLT). Right now it may seem you will never laugh again, that the night will never end, but I promise, the “time of darkness and despair will not go on forever…For those who live in a land of deep darkness, a light will shine.” (Isaiah 9:1, 2).
Even though all may seem lost, there is reason for hope “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given…” (Isaiah 9:6 KJV).
It is in this child, born so long ago in a manger, my family and I have found a way out of the darkness. Jesus is “the light of the world” and He promises, “If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.” (John 8:12 NLT).
This Christmas, that light still shines from that stable in Bethlehem. Haven’t you wandered in the dark long enough? Accept Jesus into your life today. Give Him the gift of your heart and He will chase away the shadows and fill your life with love and joy once more. Like the shepherds of old, seek the Babe for yourself today. This morning step out of the darkness.
Step into the Light!