Read: John 1:1-5
The light shines in the darkness. (v. 5)
Today believers in Jesus around the world celebrate Epiphany. On this day, we remember the story of the Magi who came from the east. When they arrived in Bethlehem, they asked King Herod, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him” (Matt. 2:2). The bright light of the star shone in the darkness of the world announcing that the light had come, just as Isaiah prophesied, “Arise, shine, for your light has come” (Isa. 60:1).
This light is Jesus. In our passage today, also known as John’s prologue, we read, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (v. 1). Jesus is the Word. His light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it (v. 5).
What darkness are you experiencing? Where do you need the light of Jesus? John of the Cross, a 16th-century Spanish priest, wrote about the “dark night of the soul.” It is a place where things feel hopeless and lonely, where you long for light where there is no light. But be encouraged, Jesus is your light, “the light of the world” (John 8:12). He will be your light where there is only darkness, your hope where there is no hope. His presence will be with you. Today, may the light of Jesus illuminate your darkness so that you will know you are not alone.
As you pray, remember that Jesus is your light, and turn to him.
Nancy Boote, an ordained minister in the Reformed Church in America, lives in Holland, Michigan, with her husband. She serves in a variety of leadership positions within the denomination. Besides being a wife, mother, and grandmother, Nancy enjoys taking prayer walks, hiking in nature, mentoring, and has a heart for justice matters.
