The Light of the World

It was a clear, cold December night as Martin Luther was walking in the woods preparing a sermon. As the forest darkened Martin headed back home and noticed light through the fir trees. Stars illuminated the night sky. That beautiful starlight made Martin think of Jesus coming down from heaven to earth.

He was so moved by his experience in the woods that Martin brought a small fir tree home and placed candles on the branches. The lit tree in his house was a reminder of God’s light to the world. This was an unusual thing to do in 16th century Germany. Over time, others began to follow Martin’s example and decorate small fir trees with candles. 

The story of Martin Luther, the infamous protestant reformer, lighting a tree is well known. Though it may be just a story, it still inspires. I can’t help but think about God’s light piercing the darkness as I imagine Martin looking through the trees to the starry sky. I love nature and it speaks so loudly and clearly to me that God made it all, and He holds it all together. 

The lights on my Christmas tree aren’t just a pretty decoration. Each time I look at the tree in my living room all lit up, I see Jesus. He is the light of the world. Jesus came from heaven to earth as a tiny baby to save us from our sin.

Then Jesus again spoke to them, saying, “I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.” 

John 8:12, NASB 

Light came into this dark world to save us. Without Jesus there is darkness, spiritual darkness. It can be a bright sunny day, yet totally dark without knowing Jesus as Savior. His beautiful light lives in those of us who have said yes to Him. It doesn’t matter how gray the skies are, or how dark the world is, Jesus’ light lives in His followers because He is the light. That’s a miracle.

“If a man could travel so fast as always to follow the sun, of course he would always be in the light. If the day should ever come when the speed of the railway shall be equal to the speed of the world’s motion, then a man may so live as to never lose the light. Now he that follows Christ shall never walk in darkness.” 

-Charles Spurgeon 

Every time you see a Christmas tree strung with beautiful lights may it be a reminder of God’s light. God’s only son, Jesus, is the light of the world. His glorious light lives in each of us who have received Him as Savior through faith. Do you know Jesus as your Savior? His light can live in you too if you trust in Him today. 

Merry Christmas!

Love and blessings to all of you,

Meghan 

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