Advent Devotion: John 1:1–9

John 1:1-9, by Scott Krysztofiak

 "The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." (John 1:5)

This year has been very difficult for many of us. With so many stressors plaguing our world, nation, and community, all too often, we have been left to cope with feelings of sadness, anxiety, anger, and disgust. But one feeling I think that can be so damaging to our well-being is hopelessness. The sense that things will not get better can cause us to focus on the darkness that is around us. This darkness can be so overwhelming that we may begin to wonder how we will ever get through things, never mind deal with the day-to-day stress that life brings. In these moments, we forget that there is always light, even when we can’t see it.

Christ is the light that is always present in darkness. As noted in scripture, “the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” The words in this passage speak to the promise that regardless of what darkness comes into our lives, Christ is always there for us. He is a constant presence during difficult times. Christ’s light radiates His love. Through His love, we can feel the refuge and strength needed to get through adversity. The love of Christ also provides us with the hope that is necessary to overcome feelings of hopelessness.

The scripture also talks about John, who served as a witness to tell the world about the light of Christ. Like John, we as Christians can share the promise of Christ’s light with others. I believe that Christ wants us to help those who struggle during difficult times. At Fairfax Presbyterian, there are many ministries and groups that focus on helping people in our congregation, community, and beyond. A part of helping others may be instilling a feeling of hope that the light of Christ is never overcome by the darkness around us.  By telling people about this promise, we can provide the necessary comfort to people during these difficult times.

As many of you know, I work in the mental health field, and everyday I see how hopelessness can affect one’s well-being. I believe that having just a shred of hope can be enough to work through even the most difficult si0tuations. The passage from the Gospel of John allows us to reflect on how Christ’s light is stronger than any darkness we face. To me, the light of Christ is the needed hope that is crucial in times when it is easy to feel hopeless. Hope is the light, and hopelessness is the darkness. By focusing on Christ’s light, we can overcome the darkness in our lives, as well as the lives of others.

Prayer: God, we thank you for sending light during these times of darkness. Help us to share it with others so that, together, we may magnify Christ’s light in the world. In your holy name, we pray. Amen.