7th December
“When they saw the star, they were overjoyed”. Matthew 2 v. 10
At this time of the year many lights appear around our homes and towns. Many people vying with their neighbours to have the best display. We all have different preferences to the kind of light we prefer whether coloured or white, static or flashing but I am sure we all agree that twinkling lights add plenty of cheer to the dark winter nights.
The very first Christmas began with a shining light in the sky. When the wise men saw the star, they referred to it as ‘his star’ because many years earlier it had been prophesised that a star would announce the birth of a king. From the very beginning God brough light into our world and our hearts.
We all struggle with areas of darkness and have secrets or pains we try to keep hidden. We think it is better to hide our struggles but those thoughts flourish in the dark. God wants us to walk in the light and live freely which is why Jesus refers Himself as the light of the world.
So let us be like the wise men this Christmas and look for the light of Christ. We were never meant to live in darkness and Christmas is the perfect time to leave it behind. As you put up your lights this year, hang some extra to remind you that God’s light chases the darkness away.
We pray:
Lord we pray for those who struggle in darkness for whatever reason we ask that You will shine Your light into their lives. May we be beacons of Your light in our Churches and communities, enable Your light to shine from us to draw those who are in pain into Your love and care. Amen
Margaret Lindley is Area Trustee for Chester & Stoke, Manchester& Stockport, Liverpool and North Wales
