The Light of the World

Introduction：

As we gather to commemorate the birth of the Savior, Jesus Christ, let us reflect on the profound meaning of Christmas, that reveals to us, the love, hope, and redemption that God offers to all people. Christmas transcends the festivities commonly associated with it, such Santa Claus, feasting on turkey or lamb, partying and drinking, exchanging gifts, and decorations. Jesus Christ should be the main reason for celebration, for without Him there is no Christmas.

Addressing Life’s Challenges:

In a world often overshadowed by darkness, troubles and uncertainties, the message of Christmas brings a radiant light that dispels the darkness and brightens the path to freedom, joy, peace and eternal life.

As we read the daily news in social media, we acknowledge that the world is groaning continually, causing the inhabitants of the earth to fill with fear, worries and suffering, but God offers love, hope, comfort, and His presence in times of hardship.

Is anyone here grappling with challenges or facing difficulties in life? Are you experiencing a period of despair and sleepless nights? Is there something troubling your soul, inducing fear and worry? Be aware that God is watchful over you and desires to be with you through both good and challenging times.

2,000 years ago, a divine light was sent by God to brighten the lives of those dwelling in darkness. This great and powerful light manifested in the human flesh, call Immanuel. He is Jesus, the Son of God.

Matthew 1:23 (NIV) “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”).

The Birth of Jesus is the fulfillment of OT prophecies.

Long before the angelic proclamation and the Magi’s journey, Prophet Isaiah prophesied about a Messiah who would be the Light to a world in darkness. The shepherds’ joyous proclamation of the good news emphasizes the inclusivity of God’s salvation plan—reaching even the lowliest of society.

The Magi’s gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to Baby Jesus illustrates that the Light of the world does not confine to a specific group but is a beacon for all nations and backgrounds.

This divine plan ensured Jesus’ arrival to rescue humanity from sin and death, thus, fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy.

Isaiah 9:2 (NIV) “The people walking in darkness (spiritual ignorance, sin, oppression, the absence of God’s presence, righteousness and justice) have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.” (c.f. Matt. 4:16)

Isaiah 7:14 (NIV) “Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a Son, and will call Him Immanuel.”

Jesus came to demonstrate God’s love to every individual, particularly those who are bound, oppressed, sick, lonely, lost, and so forth. He became the embodiment of hope, deliverance and redemption for a world covered in darkness. Most people are unaware of the purpose of their existence and what awaits them after death.

1. In the role of Light, Jesus provides guidance and vision for all, granting them a purposeful life enriched with love, joy, peace, and hope.
2. Despite the emergence of God’s Light, people still embraced darkness. They opted to live according to their preferences rather than submitting to God and turning away from their misdeeds. (Personal testimony of surrendering to Jesus)
   
   John 3:19-21– 19 This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. 20 Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. 21 But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God.Jesus explains that He, as the Light, has come into the world. However, people choose to live in ignorance or disobedience to God’s truth. They prefer darkness due to their sinful deeds—they don’t want their sinful actions exposed. Conversely, those who embrace truth and righteousness willingly come into the light. They acknowledge their need for God’s forgiveness and redemption, and they are not afraid of their deeds being exposed because they seek to align their lives with God’s will.
3. Grasp the purpose of Jesus’ mission. Jesus came to rescue, extending a lifeline to pull you from destruction. He unveils God’s plan for deliverance, forgiveness, healing, and the atonement for our sins. (Testimony: Houng Chi Kin travel from Vietnam to minister to my dying brother in 2015)
   
   Romans 6:23 – For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord. John 8:12 – Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.”Jesus declares Himself as the Light of the World. Following Him promises deliverance from spiritual darkness, leading to the light of life; a life in communion with God, filled with meaningful purpose and the assurance of salvation.

Testimonies:

Prisoner Testimony: Brother A, serving a jail sentence, found redemption and reconciliation with his family through repentance and prayer. His brokenness led to a miraculous reunion, illustrating the grace and the goodness of Jesus.

Prisoner Testimony: Brother F, a convicted lawyer, found the Light (Jesus) of God in prison; repented, and prayed for a new beginning. God miraculously facilitated his legal requirements, to appeal for his court case to reduce his imprisonment.

These testimonies reveal to us that Jesus is real and He cares for people. He came to offer us hope, forgiveness, new life and a relationship with Him

4. Jesus extends an invitation for you to believe and follow Him, desiring to illuminate your life. What are you delaying for? You stand to gain every good thing from Him, and there is nothing to lose. This is a personal decision, calling for your choice rather than compulsion.

Conclusion:

Living in darkness is often associated with encountering confusion, moral decline, and a feeling of aimlessness in life. Ultimately, it can lead the individual to a state of hopelessness, despair, and being lost forever.

Jesus, the light of God is the transformative presence, guiding individuals out of the darkness of sin, providing forgiveness, reconciliation, and a renewed relationship with God; offering hope, redemption, and a path to a transformed life through faith and grace.

Prayer:

Gracious Father in heaven, we thank You for the light of Your Son Jesus Christ that dispels darkness in our lives. We ask You to help us to choose to believe and follow Jesus to experience His transformative power, and share this blessing with others. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.