Epiphany: The light shines in the darkness
John 1:4-5
Through January 6, 2023 (Epiphany) I’ll be posting devotionals with a Christmas and Epiphany theme.
So…what’s this Epiphany thing all about? Let’s look at what Dictionary.com has to say:
(initial capital letter) a Christian festival, observed on January 6, commemorating the manifestation of Christ to the gentiles in the persons of the Magi; Twelfth-day.
In today’s verses, the Apostle John (who we’re hearing a lot from lately here at Heaven On Wheels) begins his Gospel at the very beginning — creation. While Epiphany commemorates the “manifestation of Christ to the gentiles…”, we know that Christ “was, is now, and ever shall be”:
“The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.”
John 1:4-5 NLT
I love the imagery of God as light. When I look back on my years as a non-believer, I envision them as being dark. My life now is flooded with the light of Jesus, and even in the darkest moments, that light burns brightly.
The Magi were drawn to Bethlehem by the light of Jesus Christ, visible to them as a bright star:
“And the star they had seen in the east guided them to Bethlehem. It went ahead of them and stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were filled with joy!”
Matthew 2:9-10 NLT
There is no higher calling for a Christian than to strive to bring others to the light. If you’re looking for a New Year’s resolution for 2023, why not consider evangelizing for Christ? Lead others out of the darkness of their lives and into the light of Jesus!
Heaven On Wheels Daily Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I praise you for the life of the Lord Jesus. Thank You for rescuing me from darkness and bringing me into your kingdom of light, into a new life in Christ. May I live my life in a way that is pleasing to You! In Jesus’ name I pray, AMEN.