In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 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. – John 1:1-5
The gospel of John presents the coming of Jesus – not through a birth story, but through a beautiful theological prologue. This first chapter states that Jesus is the Word, the Life, and the Light. Jesus truly is God’s presence revealed to us. Here, from these beginning verses of John that tell us about Jesus, we also learn that there was darkness. We have all faced difficult times and struggles that we might consider to be dark times. There could be the darkness in our lives from loss, loneliness, anger, depression, grief, or stress. But even though there was darkness, this scripture states already that the darkness does NOT overcome the light. The light of Christ shines through – what an incredible promise!
In the hymn, O Little Town of Bethlehem, we sing these words in the first verse: Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting life, the hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight. The words of this song also state the fact that darkness and trouble are present in our world. Yet, there is an everlasting life that shines through! The light is present to guide and to comfort. Yes, the light of Christ helps us – bringing us peace in our dark times.
Another verse in the Gospel of John shares these words of Jesus, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” At first, John tells us that the darkness doesn’t overcome the light, which is encouraging enough in itself. But the fact that Jesus is the one who overcomes the world is even more encouraging and powerful. So when you are going through a difficult, troubling, or dark time, remember this truth from Jesus – that He has overcome. The light of Christ is what will overcome the darkness in our lives.
During this Advent season, as we remember the birth of Christ, let us remember that Jesus is the light. Jesus is the one who has overcome the darkness. If you’re facing a darkness this year or you know someone who is, remind yourself and them of this truth. And through this truth and promise, may you find peace, hope, love, and joy.
Amy Givens, Director of Youth Ministry
