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Day 3: The Light of the World
“Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’” (John 8:12 ESV)
Amid life’s complexities, it is easy to feel surrounded by darkness. But in this verse, Jesus declares Himself as the Light of the world. He offers a path through the confusion, fear, and despair that so often cloud our lives. When we choose to follow Him, He promises that we will not walk in darkness but in the light of life. This light brings clarity, hope, and peace, guiding us in ways that the world cannot.
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” (Matthew 5:14 ESV)
As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect His light. Just as a city on a hill cannot be hidden, neither can we hide the light that Christ has placed within us. Our lives should serve as a beacon of His love and truth, shining in the world to point others to Him. This verse reminds us that our calling is to be visible—actively showing the light of Christ in everything we do.
“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone.” (Isaiah 9:2 ESV)
This verse points to the prophecy of Christ, who would break into the world as the great Light. Those who had been in darkness would now have the opportunity to see the glorious light of God’s salvation. Jesus fulfilled this promise, coming to a world in desperate need of hope. The light He brings dispels the deepest shadows, offering freedom and restoration to all who receive it.
“For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” (2 Corinthians 4:6 ESV)
Paul emphasizes the transformative power of God’s light in our lives. It is not just a light that shines around us, but a light that shines within us. The knowledge of God’s glory, revealed in Jesus Christ, transforms our hearts. As we are filled with His light, we are called to reflect that light to others, sharing the hope and love we’ve received.
Journaling:
Reflect on a time when you experienced the light of Christ in a dark situation. How did His light guide you through that experience?
How can you be a reflection of Christ’s light to those around you today?
What darkness do you need to invite Jesus’ light into? Write a prayer asking Him to shine His light into that area of your life.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for being the Light of the world, shining in the darkness, and guiding us with Your truth and love. Help us to follow You more closely, so we may walk reflecting that light to others. Shine in us so we may bring hope to those around us. May Your light fill every area of our lives, to transform us into the people You are calling us to be. In Jesus’ name, Amen.