Walking in the Light

Midweek Study with Pastor Edith
November 27, 2024
Isaiah 9:1-7 and 1 John 1:5-7

This Sunday will be the first Sunday in the Holy Season of Advent. Many churches will acknowledge this season, that has been a tradition for the church for centuries, by lighting a candle in an Advent Wreath which holds 5 total candles. Many of you are probably familiar with this tradition and may have even been asked to read scripture before lighting a candle. I get so much joy watching the families or member of the church come forward to do something many are very uncomfortable doing; reading out loud in public. But they do it and afterward there are usually smiles all around.

The first candle, at our church, is the candle of Hope. One of the scriptures suggested comes from the prophet Isaiah. In chapter 9 it reads, in part; “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; Upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom a light has shone”.

In a world that is in such turmoil, it is so important to be a light bearer. Sort of like the acolytes in our church who lead the way of worship as they come forward during our opening song and light the altar candles. I love praying over these kids (sometime adult kids), and see how proud and thankful they are to be the leaders as I walk behind them, praying all the way.

One of my favorite New Testament scriptures that speaks of this light is 1 John 1:5-7. In these verses John writes about the message that believers declare (or, should declare, with or without words); “God is light and in Him there is no darkness at all…if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin”.

Pretty good message, I would say. Advent is a marvelous time of focusing on the Light of the world, Jesus. I pray you will make it a priority, as much as it is possible for you, to go to a church service, perhaps with your family or trusted friend, and celebrate this Holy Season.

Amen!