As we draw near to Christmas Day, my thoughts become more focused on the Scripture that celebrate the birth of Christ. The ones I love best are those that talk about the coming of Christ in terms of light. The winter darkness reminds us of how precious and beautiful light is. Likewise the darkness and suffering of our world serves as a poignant reminder of how desperately we need the light of God in our hearts. For the past several years, the verses that I’ve put on Christmas cards speak of light and today I wanted to share this year’s passage. It comes from Isaiah 60 – I used just verses 1-2 and 5, but the whole chapter is a beautiful reflection of the light of God shining on His people.
1“Arise, shine, for your light has come,
and the glory of the Lord rises upon you.
2 See, darkness covers the earth
and thick darkness is over the peoples,
but the Lord rises upon you
and his glory appears over you.
3 Nations will come to your light,
and kings to the brightness of your dawn.
4 “Lift up your eyes and look about you:
All assemble and come to you;
your sons come from afar,
and your daughters are carried on the hip.
5 Then you will look and be radiant,
your heart will throb and swell with joy;
This passage reminds me very much of the wise men from the east who recognized a specific star as signifying the coming of Messiah. “Where is he who is born king of the Jews? We have seen his star in the east and have come to worship him.” The wise men had read and believed the Jewish prophecies that were brought with the nation when they were scattered from their homeland. Perhaps they had even read these words from Isaiah before, not realizing that they would play a role in their fulfillment. These kings followed the light of the star and found the Light of the World.
Blessings to you,
Sarah
anordinarymiracleday 