John's Witness of Light in the Darkness.

"There was a man sent from God, 
whose name was John. 
He came as a witness to testify to the light,
 so that all might believe through him." 

(from John 1:6-8, 19-28)

Light is essential to life.

Elaine and I are fans of PBS "Nature" program.

 The last three episodes have focused on the Arctic, it's relation to the seasons, and the impact of daylight.

 Just as the changing of Daylight-Saving Time impacts the rhythm of our lives, so it impacts all God’s creatures during the cycle of seasons.

Daylight’s life force and animating power diminishes, so does its animating force making Winter a difficult time due to the darkness impacting emotions, outdoor activities, and routine work.

Our Ancient Ones created essential festivals of light in the darkest and shortest days of the year.

Into the darkness of his day comes John the Witness, sent from God, to announce a coming light that darkness cannot overcome.

The light John the Witness mentions refers to Jesus, more than that this light is the animating life for all people.

This light of the world will continually shine and if darkness temporarily prevails, the light will overcome it because of a fundamental human need for light.

Perhaps while we wait to welcome the Word made flesh there might be a place or a way to shine the light of God.

We are living in times of spiritual and moral darkness, of human brokenness, and oppression.

Surely we could shine light for those experiencing evil, injustice, and oppression.

As we wait for the coming of Jesus possibly we could shine some light to the brokenhearted, proclaim liberty to the captives, and release the imprisoned.

Think about it: There is no shortage of the oppressed, brokenhearted and captive. Who needs your witness of God's light in your life this week?