The Christmas Light Cure

Day 1

Scripture

John 1:1-5

The Word was first, the Word present to God, God present to the Word. The Word was God, in readiness for God from day one. Everything was created through him; nothing—not one thing!—came into being without him. What came into existence was Life, and the Life was Light to live by. The Life-Light blazed out of the darkness; the darkness couldn’t put it out.

Devotional

The dark days of December can be challenging. Over 14 hours a day is consumed with darkness. It’s no wonder that December – February are ranked highest for those being diagnosed with depression. Of course there is scientific evidence behind all of this and the vitamin deficiencies that come with the lack of sunlight. Science or not, most of us “feel” the impact of the dark days.

I am nearly certain that there is no Vitamin D that emits from Christmas lights and yet, somehow, and for some reason, those light tend to bring us joy. Of course Christmas lights are not a cure for clinical depression, but they do bring some relief from “the blues” of the dark days of winter.

Why is light so important? In 2017 a psychological study was conducted, and its conclusion was that decorating (even decorating early) can indeed make you happier. One of the main reasons people are happier had to do with lights. That’s right, lights! Light brings joy.

“The Word was first…what came into existence was Life, and the Life was Light to live by. The Life-Light blazed out of the darkness; the darkness couldn’t put it out.”

Jesus is the light that has come. The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has no power over the light. 

Christmas lights are fun to look at. Most everyone enjoys seeing them. Yes, they bring us joy. Yes, they put a smile on our face, and we love seeing a child’s eyes when they see a Christmas light display. We, however, have a relationship with the greatest of lights. The light you have in your life cannot be dimmed. The light of Christ cannot be put out!

Prayer

Holy One, as the days get darker, help me experience your light. Help me be mindful of your light. May I have an attitude of joy because of the life-light you give. Help me not only experience your light but help me share your light. Help me be a reflection of your light even on the darkest of days and in the darkest of situations. Amen

Challenge

Where have you experienced the light of Christ recently? What is one way you can reflect God’s light in the coming week?

By Chuck Fenwick