Let there be Light
The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” (Is 9:2, Matt 2:2)
Happy New Year!
Jesus Christ was prophesied as the great light shining upon the Northerners who were walking in deep darkness. He was revealed to Easterners by way of an indicative shining star, that eventually led them to Bethlehem. What a terrible year 2021 will be if light does not shine on us! As we have already noted using a reflection on Apostle John’s introduction, the birth of Jesus Christ was a loud re-statement of, ‘Let there be Light’. In this year when we as re-embrace our status in Christ as ‘A New Creation’, light is of utmost importance. For the sake of the gospel, I see physical changes at the Altar and Sound Booth; I see new believers, new leaders and new congregations. Yes, let there be light!
The great light was to take the Northerners of Isaiah 9 out of their distress and disgrace, sadness and shame. The light would shatter the yoke that burdened them, the rod of the oppressor. This light would usher in good news, protection, reconciliation, and lasting peace – as clearly heard from the titles of the Son: Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Sounds of liberation and restoration of justice are loud from this reading, and the Lord Jesus Christ is that ultimate Light. When you think about our excited nation, the disappointments and heartbreaks occasioned by misappropriation of resources, the high-handedness and bloodshed, the threats of violence, where shall our help come from? Do you see a reason for praying, ‘Let there be Light?’
Beyond justice here on earth, there is a deeper need in the heart of every human being. The longing for the transcendent – the yearning to draw close and closer to the Creator of the universe. The wise men from the East would finally be satisfied by reaching and worship the new born King in Bethlehem. They carried expensive gifts of highest value to represent the highest longing; they traversed borders to indicate to the world that Jesus was not born to save only the Jews. When we follow this example and bow down and worship the Lord, right there at personal level, this is good news, assurance of protection, a warm reception into the Father’s house, and a guarantee for lasting inner peace. Determine to grow deeper in worship and to encourage someone on this journey.
We need God’s light in our nation and institutions as well. Uganda is in need of concerted prayer and action as a cloud of darkness hovers over us in this season of elections. God said, and let us call upon him in these words: Let there be Light.
God bless you all