December 24, 2024

Readings:

Isaiah 9:2-7

Psalm 96

Titus 2:11-14

Luke 2:1-14,

“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!” (Luke 2:14)

In the beginning when God began the work of creation the earth was a formless void covered in darkness (Genesis 1:1-2). God’s first act of creation was to create light (Genesis 1:3).

With the announcement of Jesus’ birth all darkness has the potential to be banished. Not only the chaotic darkness of the primordial cosmos, but the darkness of sin and failure that threatens all of us can now be expelled.

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness on them light has shined (Isaiah 9:2). In its original context, this oracle was written to celebrate the coronation of a king of Isaiah’s day, probably Hezekiah (who ruled 715–687 BCE).

In Christian tradition these words have found a home in the traditions surrounding Advent. The titles “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6), while not found in the New Testament resonate with what we know of the life and ministry of Jesus.

Jesus declared, “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) This bold proclamation echoes the words found in the prologue of John’s gospel, The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it. (John 1:5)

The gift of light is meant to be shared. When the shepherds received the news of Jesus’ birth their immediate response was to run to Bethlehem to see the newborn baby. I once received a phone call and the caller joyfully exclaimed, “Something good just happened to me and I want to share it with you!” When the light of Christ’s presence breaks through the darkness of our lives we cannot help but share it with someone else.

In the busyness of last-minute gift wrapping, putting toys together, and trying to get a few minutes of sleep on Christmas Eve, pause for a moment and join the psalmist in a song of praise.

O sing to the LORD a new song;

sing to the LORD, all the earth.

Sing to the LORD, bless his name;

tell of his salvation from day to day. (Psalms 96:1-2)