#1207. Light dawns in the shadow of death (27/12/24)

Welcome to this Come to Jesus Daily Devotional as we continue our Christmas series, Emmanuel, where we are reflecting on the promises regarding God coming to us in Jesus.

Today, from Isaiah 9:1-2, and its fulfilment in Matthew 4:12-17, We reflect on the nature of the light that Jesus gives to us.

Isaiah 9:1–2 Matthew 4:12–17

To watch this devotional, select the link below

https://youtu.be/KMLy4O22HFo

Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honour Galilee of the nations, by the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan — The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.’ (Isaiah 9:1-2)

Isaiah 9:1–2

‘When Jesus heard that John had been put in prison, he withdrew to Galilee. Leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in Capernaum, which was by the lake in the area of Zebulun and Naphtali — to fulfil what was said through the prophet Isaiah: “Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles— the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.” From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”’ (Matthew 4:12-17)

Matthew 4:12–17

This week we’ve given time to reflecting on our spiritual darkness, and how Jesus has saved us from such a place by His grace. Finally, today, I want us to think a little about the nature of the ‘light’ that is said to shine on us. We are told that ‘The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.’

1. Jesus was the light of God

Firstly, this is simply a reference to the ministry of Jesus in this region. As Jesus came, taught, healed, He was the light who was revealing God to them. He was God in the flesh (incarnate) with them. This is why John writes:

‘The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.’ (John 1:9)

John 1:9

‘No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known.’ (1 John 1:18)

So, firstly, let’s remember that when we read the gospels, we are seeing a vision of the invisible God.

2. Jesus imparts the light of life

Secondly, this light, is about the salvation that Jesus imparts to us. As light casts out darkness, so faith in Christ casts out sin and death from those who will receive Jesus. This light imparting life process is spoken of:

‘For what we preach is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.’ (2 Corinthians 4:5-6)

2 Corinthians 4:5–6

3. Light casts out darkness

Finally, when the light of Jesus, by the Spirit, shines on one’s soul, darkness is cast out. This is why, after describing Jesus as Light, His ministry is described: ‘From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”’ Our response to light is to repent. The light of the gospel and the light of truth are to cast doubt, fear and sin from our lives - a process that continues throughout our lives.

In response, we need to open ourselves up to the light of Jesus. Are we responsive to what He reveals? Are we allowing sin, fear (even the fear of death), unbelief to be cast out of our lives by the light of Christ? We will only enjoy the light of Christ if we are truly open to it.

Let’s pray together

“Lord Jesus, I praise you that you are the light of the world. Keep revealing yourself to me. Keep casting darkness out of my life. Amen.”