Scripture

John 1:3-5 NRSV

All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.

Consider

In this Prologue to his Gospel (vv. 1-18), John tries to capture for us the power, authority, magnificence, and divine mission of God the Son—Jesus, whose birth we celebrate this season. John uses the metaphor of light to explain the sovereignty of all that is God over all that is opposed to God: “and the darkness did not overcome [the light].” The word overcome has also been translated as mastered, put out, defeated, extinguished, apprehended, and even comprehended. Darkness has no power over God’s Light. Period.

To understand this rich metaphor, try this exercise. Read John 1:3-5 several times and then make a list of what “the light” means to you. Use Scripture to back up your list wherever you can; a Bible concordance will be handy here. How have you experienced this light in your life? How has this light shown you God?

Next, make a list of all that is “the darkness.” What do you think John meant by this term? Now add to your list what constitutes “the darkness” in your relationships. What do you see that opposes God and tries to block God’s light? Examine your heart and explore the shadows where you resist God.

Finally, consider your two lists side by side. Ask God to show you how his light can overcome each item of darkness in your life. Spend some time considering each shadow and ask God to help you drive back the darkness. Pray that God will increase the light in your heart, in your life, and in your relationships.

Pray

Heavenly Father, Lord Jesus Christ, and indwelling Holy Counselor: Shine your light into my heart and show me all the dark places where you want to be Lord. Help me to see how darkness hurts my relationships, and give me wisdom and strength to change my habits and desires.

Reflect

Isaiah 9:1-7; 60:1-3; 2 Corinthians 4:5-6; Ephesians 5:8-9

Ponder

Which item of darkness in my life will I surrender to God’s light this week?