People of the Light

During the holidays, the contrast between light and darkness is stark. For those living in darkness, fears loom large. Hope flickers. The fight against the darkness is constant.

But just a spark can push the dark back, and when Jesus enters people’s lives, darkness loses its hold. The birth of the Savior in our world, and in our hearts, is like the noonday sun. Christmas brings us a celebration of light into the darkest season, reminding us how Jesus brings light to the darkest lives.

You used to be like people living in the dark, but now you are people of the light because you belong to the Lord. So act like people of the light and make your light shine.

Ephesians 5:8-9a (CEV)

Jesus came to change us, even if our circumstances don’t immediately change. And then he sends us out. We are his lanterns, holding up his light. It can be difficult not to be self-absorbed with all the things troubling us and demanding our attention, but the Lord heals us when we reach out to help others. He lifts us as we lift them.

Darkness may be laying siege to the joy of Christmas for people you love. We all need a Savior, a light. Are you deployed to a dark, ugly part of the world? Carry his light. Are you struggling with a rebellious child? Pray with hope for the arrival of the Savior in their heart.

Burdened by the depression of those around you? Hold to the vision of the angels scattering the darkness while proclaiming the Christ’s birth.

No matter what you and your family are facing this year, you can take heart in the message of Christmas—and share it with those around you: the light of the world has come!

PRAY

Lord Jesus, your light changes the darkest place, the darkest heart. Thank you for coming for us. Thank you for giving us your hope. Help me and my family shine your light. Amen.

TIME TO TALK

Conversation starter for kids: Provides you with questions and prompts to facilitate a time of applicable discussion with children to lead them towards knowing God and His Word more deeply.

Questions: Do you know anyone who is having a hard time this Christmas? How can we share Jesus’ light with them?

KEEP IT GOING

Related passages: These additional verses will help parents expand their Scriptural knowledge and place on the armor of God’s Word to tackle each day. Look up the following passages for today:

Isaiah 9:2

John 8:12

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Tonia Gutting wrote this devotional for the Hero Squad Program of the American Bible Society. Hero Squad provides complimentary faith-based resources to strengthen and encourage Military families through God’s Word. For more information or to enroll your Military family, check out our website.www.myherosquad.org.