As the holiday season approaches, homes and streets are adorned with bright, twinkling lights, transforming our surroundings into a festive wonderland. These lights are more than mere decorations; they serve as a reminder of the essence of Christmas—that Jesus Christ is the Light of the World.  The Christmas story is not just a seasonal tale but a divine revelation of God’s nature and His eternal light piercing through the darkness of humanity.

The Birth of Light

Luke 2:6-9 recounts the humble beginning of Jesus’ life. Mary brought forth her firstborn son, wrapping Him in swaddling clothes and laying Him in a manger because there was no room at the inn. This moment, while simple and unassuming, marked the entrance of the Light into the world. The shepherds in the field witnessed the glory of the Lord shining around them, illustrating that the arrival of Jesus was the dawn of hope for a world steeped in darkness.

In John 1:1-5, we are reminded of the divine nature of Jesus: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” Jesus was not just a man born in Bethlehem; He was the Word made flesh, the very expression of God. In Him was life, and that life became the light of men—a light that continues to shine in the darkness, even when the darkness fails to comprehend it. The Christmas story, therefore, is a narrative of God manifesting His light in the world, a light that transforms lives and offers hope to all.

What If Jesus Had Never Been Born?

The world without Jesus would be a place devoid of the values and principles that uplift humanity. The birth of Christ has shaped human history in immeasurable ways, influencing the value of human life, the worth of children and women, compassion for the poor, and the power of forgiveness. The impact of Jesus is seen in every corner of society, from humanitarian efforts to the core values that many of us hold dear.

The classic film It’s A Wonderful Life offers a glimpse into how one person’s absence could create gaping holes in the lives of others. If this is true for an ordinary person, how much more profound would the absence of Jesus be?

His life, teachings, and sacrifice have left an indelible mark on human history and continue to provide the hope and light that illuminate our paths today.

The World’s Rejection of the Light

As much as the Christmas story is about the light entering the world, there is a sobering truth that many people fail to grasp: the darkness does not always comprehend the light. John 1:5 says, “The light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.” The Greek word translated as “comprehended” implies more than understanding; it suggests a failure to seize or possess the light.

This remains true in our modern world. Despite widespread familiarity with the Christmas story, many people fail to believe that it is for them personally. The commercialisation and hustle of the season often overshadow the true message of Christmas—that Jesus was born for each of us. People know the story, yet they do not seize its truth for themselves. They remain in darkness, unwilling to let the light of Jesus transform their lives.

Jesus: The Light Manifested in Flesh

The miracle of Christmas is not just about a baby born in a manger; it is about God stepping into human history. Colossians 2:9 declares, “For in Him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.” Jesus was not simply a prophet or a teacher; He was God manifested in flesh, the express image of the invisible God.

Just as God declared, “Let there be light” at the dawn of creation, He once again brought light to the world through Jesus Christ.

John 1:14 says, “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us.” The light that shone in the beginning now came to dwell among humanity. Jesus, the light, shines in the darkness of our world, offering hope, life, and a relationship with God.

In a society where people often seek peace, joy, and happiness through temporary means—like pills, entertainment, or material possessions—Jesus stands as the ultimate solution. These fleeting attempts can never satisfy because true peace and joy come only from a relationship with Him.

The Church as the Light of the World

Jesus did not stop at being the light of the world; He called His followers to carry that light forward. In Matthew 5:14-16, Jesus said, “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid.” This is not just a statement of identity but a call to action. As followers of Christ, we are called to shine His light in the darkness around us—in our workplaces, schools, communities, and families.

Today, we are surrounded by darkness: people struggling with sin, families facing brokenness, and friends living in confusion and despair. But Jesus still declares, “You are the light of the world.” The solution to the darkness is the light that we, as the body of Christ, carry within us. The gates of hell cannot prevail against the church when we rise up and let our light shine.

Conclusion

Christmas is the celebration of light—the Light of the World coming to dispel the darkness. We understand that this light is not just a historical event but an ongoing reality. Jesus, the Word made flesh, is the light that transforms lives. And He has called us, His followers, to be the light in this dark world.

As we celebrate this season, let us remember that the light of Christmas is for everyone. Let us shine brightly, pointing others to the One who brings hope, peace, and salvation. For the darkness cannot overcome the light, and when we shine, we fulfill the divine call to be the light of the world.