01 Dec …but the Light is still greater!
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 (NIV)
In reflection, 2020 wasn’t what we expected.
Many say 2020 has been a disappointment. Others say these times are “unprecedented.” And some of us feel that the darkness is winning.
But nothing could be farther from the Truth!
There’s reason for joy: consider three examples comparing COVID-19 to biblical times.
Reason #1 for joy: COVID-19 and the Assyrian empire
As the COVID-19 global pandemic expanded in early-2020, people worldwide huddled in terror, and darkness seemed to have the upper hand. Unprecedented? No.
As the brutal Assyrian empire expanded around 700 B.C., a declining Israel huddled in terror, and darkness seemed to have the upper hand.
Yet the prophet Isaiah foretold, “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.” Isaiah was speaking of Christ. Jesus delivered both believing Jews and Gentiles living in darkness, and He delivers believers today.
Then, like now, darkness was great…but the Light is still greater!
Reason #2 for joy: COVID-19 and the Jewish leaders
Many 2020 government leaders are accused of restricting U.S. citizens’ civil liberties under the guise of protecting the people which breeds suspicion. Darkness creeps in again. Unprecedented? Hardly.
Many Jewish leaders were accused of restricting the Gospel’s spread to the Jews under the guise of protecting the people which bred murderous threats against Jesus. Was darkness winning?
Not a chance! The Apostle John highlighted in 8:12, “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.’” Jesus is the Light that will extinguish all fear, pretense, and darkness.
Then, like now, darkness was great…but the Light is still greater!!
Reason #3 for joy: COVID-19 and the Good News
In late 2020, due to the hard work of many dedicated professionals, there are stories of a COVID-19 vaccination that will save the world from sickness and death. Perhaps darkness is losing its grip. Unprecedented? Not a chance.
Due to the hard and fully sufficient work of Jesus on the cross, there are true stories of a sin remedy – believing in Jesus alone – that will save the world from eternal death. Joy evermore!
COVID-19 spreads quickly, but the Good News spreads even more quickly! How? Jesus taught in Matthew 9:14, “You are the light of the world.” Because we can reflect Jesus’ light, we can spread the Good News that Jesus saves, darkness is forever vanquished!
Then, like now, darkness was great…but the Light is still greater!!!
Take time this Advent season to reflect on Jesus, the Light of the world who shines so brightly!
Joy to the world, the Savior reigns,
Travis L. Zimmerman
Pastor and Co-Founder
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