Embracing the Light: Hope in Our Darkness

 

Summary

In this time of Advent, we reflect on the profound theme of light entering the world through Jesus Christ. This season reminds us that even in our darkest moments, there is a promise of light and hope. Isaiah's prophecy, quoted in Matthew, speaks to those walking in darkness seeing a great light. This light is Jesus, who enters our darkness so that we may enter His light. The year 2020 has been challenging for many, filled with unprecedented darkness and trials. Yet, it is in these moments of darkness that we often encounter God in unique and transformative ways.

The Gospel of John tells us that in Jesus was life, and that life was the light of humanity. This light shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot overcome it. Jesus' cry of dereliction on the cross, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" signifies His full entry into our darkness, allowing us to experience His light. This light is not something we generate; it is a gift given to us. Isaiah's prophecy continues, "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders." This reminds us that no human government or power can deliver us; only Jesus can bear the weight of the world and transform a culture of grievance into a culture of hope.

As we navigate our own darkness, whether it be personal struggles, loss, or societal challenges, we are called to let our light shine. This light is reflected in acts of kindness, forgiveness, and love. It is seen in the way we support one another, in the encouragement we offer, and in the hope we share. Let us be a community of light shiners, bringing the light of Christ into every corner of our lives and the lives of those around us.

Key Takeaways:

- Light in Darkness: In our darkest moments, we often encounter God in ways we cannot elsewhere. Jesus entered our darkness so we could enter His light, reminding us that even in despair, there is hope and redemption. [04:54]

- The Unquenchable Light: The light of Jesus shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot extinguish it. This light brings clarity and hope, transforming our lives and guiding us through trials. [11:25]

- Bearing the Weight: Jesus, with His broad shoulders, bears the weight of the world, offering a hope that no human power can provide. He transforms a culture of grievance into one of hope and peace. [10:35]

- Let Your Light Shine: We are called to let our light shine in acts of kindness, forgiveness, and love. In doing so, we reflect the light of Christ and bring hope to those around us. [19:32]

- Community of Light: As a community, we support and encourage one another, sharing the light of Christ in our interactions and relationships. Together, we can be a beacon of hope in a dark world. [18:43]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:14] - Greetings and Gratitude
- [00:45] - Theme of Light in Advent
- [01:33] - Isaiah's Prophecy
- [02:41] - Personal Stories of Darkness
- [04:30] - Jesus Entering Our Darkness
- [05:45] - Meeting God in Darkness
- [06:23] - Light from God
- [07:40] - Government on His Shoulders
- [09:16] - Culture of Grievance
- [10:22] - Broad Shoulders of God
- [11:16] - Light Shines in Darkness
- [12:46] - John the Baptist's Insight
- [13:03] - Let Your Light Shine
- [18:28] - Community of Light Shiners
- [19:32] - Prayer of Blessing

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
1. Isaiah 9:1-2, 6
2. John 1:4-5
3. Matthew 4:16

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Observation Questions:

1. According to Isaiah 9:1-2, what transformation is promised to those walking in darkness? How does this relate to the theme of light in the sermon? [02:27]

2. In John 1:4-5, what is described as the relationship between light and darkness? How does this passage support the sermon’s message about Jesus being the light? [05:58]

3. How does the sermon describe Jesus' entry into our darkness, and what significance does this have for us? [04:54]

4. What examples from the sermon illustrate how people have encountered God in their darkest moments? [03:03]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does Isaiah's prophecy about a child being born and the government resting on His shoulders provide hope in times of darkness? [07:01]

2. What does the sermon suggest about the nature of Jesus' light and its ability to overcome darkness? How does this align with John 1:5? [11:25]

3. In what ways does the sermon suggest that personal and societal darkness can be transformed by Jesus' light? [10:35]

4. How does the concept of a "culture of grievance" contrast with the hope offered by Jesus, according to the sermon? [09:29]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on a time when you felt surrounded by darkness. How did you experience God's light during that period, and what did it teach you about His presence? [04:54]

2. The sermon encourages us to let our light shine through acts of kindness, forgiveness, and love. Identify one specific act you can do this week to reflect Christ's light to someone in need. [19:32]

3. Consider the idea of Jesus bearing the weight of the world. What burdens are you currently carrying that you need to entrust to Him? How can you practically do this? [10:35]

4. The sermon mentions the importance of community in sharing the light of Christ. How can you contribute to building a supportive and encouraging community within your small group or church? [18:43]

5. Think about a grievance or hurt you are holding onto. How can you begin to release this to God and allow His light to transform your heart? [19:11]

6. Identify a specific area in your life where you feel darkness is prevalent. What steps can you take to invite Jesus' light into that area? [06:23]

7. How can you be intentional about seeking God's light in your daily life, especially during challenging times? What practices or habits can help you stay focused on His presence? [06:36]

Devotional

Day 1: Encountering God in Darkness
In our darkest moments, we often encounter God in ways we cannot elsewhere. The Advent season reminds us that Jesus entered our darkness so we could enter His light, offering hope and redemption even in despair. The prophecy from Isaiah, quoted in Matthew, speaks of a great light seen by those walking in darkness. This light is Jesus, who fully entered our darkness, as seen in His cry of dereliction on the cross, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" This signifies His complete identification with our suffering, allowing us to experience His transformative light. In the challenging year of 2020, filled with unprecedented trials, many have found that it is precisely in these moments of darkness that they encounter God in unique and transformative ways. [04:54]

Isaiah 50:10 (ESV): "Who among you fears the Lord and obeys the voice of his servant? Let him who walks in darkness and has no light trust in the name of the Lord and rely on his God."

Reflection: Think of a recent dark moment in your life. How did you encounter God in that situation, and what did you learn about His presence and light?


Day 2: The Unquenchable Light
The light of Jesus shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot extinguish it. This light brings clarity and hope, transforming our lives and guiding us through trials. The Gospel of John tells us that in Jesus was life, and that life was the light of humanity. This light is not something we generate; it is a gift given to us. Jesus' light shines in the darkness, offering guidance and hope that cannot be overcome by any darkness we face. This assurance allows us to navigate life's challenges with confidence, knowing that His light will always prevail. [11:25]

Psalm 18:28 (ESV): "For it is you who light my lamp; the Lord my God lightens my darkness."

Reflection: Identify an area in your life where you feel overwhelmed by darkness. How can you invite Jesus' unquenchable light into that situation today?


Day 3: Bearing the Weight
Jesus, with His broad shoulders, bears the weight of the world, offering a hope that no human power can provide. Isaiah's prophecy reminds us that no human government or power can deliver us; only Jesus can bear the weight of the world and transform a culture of grievance into a culture of hope. In a world filled with challenges and burdens, Jesus stands as the one who carries our burdens and offers peace. His shoulders are broad enough to bear the weight of our struggles, and His presence transforms our grievances into hope and peace. [10:35]

Isaiah 9:6 (ESV): "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."

Reflection: What burden are you currently carrying that you need to entrust to Jesus? How can you practically lay it on His shoulders today?


Day 4: Let Your Light Shine
We are called to let our light shine in acts of kindness, forgiveness, and love. In doing so, we reflect the light of Christ and bring hope to those around us. This call to action is a reminder that the light we have received is not meant to be hidden but shared. By engaging in acts of kindness, offering forgiveness, and demonstrating love, we become conduits of Christ's light in the world. Our actions can inspire and uplift others, creating a ripple effect of hope and encouragement. [19:32]

Matthew 5:16 (ESV): "In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."

Reflection: Consider one specific act of kindness or love you can perform today to reflect Christ's light to someone in your life.


Day 5: Community of Light
As a community, we support and encourage one another, sharing the light of Christ in our interactions and relationships. Together, we can be a beacon of hope in a dark world. The call to be a community of light shiners emphasizes the importance of collective support and encouragement. By coming together as a community, we can amplify the light of Christ and create a powerful force for good. Our shared experiences and mutual support can help us navigate challenges and bring hope to those around us. [18:43]

Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV): "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."

Reflection: How can you actively contribute to your community of faith this week to help it become a brighter beacon of hope and encouragement?

Quotes


The people walking in darkness have seen a great light, on those living in the land of deep darkness, a light has dawned. [00:02:24]

Jesus enters fully into our darkness so that we can enter fully into his light. This has been such a dark year for us in many ways, and I think about the darkest moment that we have been in. [00:04:50]

In him was life, and that life was the light of humanity, and the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can't extinguish it. [00:05:57]

The government will be on his shoulders. Part of the darkness of this season is we're all wondering upon whose shoulders will the government be. [00:07:41]

There is no human leadership, there is no human power, there is no human government that can deliver us. We often think there will be, and so people get all amped up about it. [00:08:01]

God's shoulders can bear this world; mine cannot. Jesus was born into the world with shoulders broad enough to bear the pain and the darkness of the human race. [00:10:32]

He alone can turn a culture of grievance into a culture of hope, and he can do that for you and me, and that is the light that we live in. [00:10:59]

The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot put it out, or the darkness cannot understand that, the darkness can't comprehend it. [00:11:14]

Let your light shine. Whatever you need to do to go receive light from God today, let your light shine. [00:13:03]

What if we just became a community of light shiners? If you order out today and you pick up that food, and you're thinking about how much should I tip, in that moment, let your light shine. [00:18:48]

If there's somebody in your life where you got a grievance, and there's darkness in your heart, and you're reminded today that Jesus went to a cross so the light can shine in our darkness, let your light shine. [00:19:14]

Thank you that although we walk in a great darkness, unknowing, unseeing, unfeeling, thinking darkness outside of us and darkness inside of us, the darkness of our own sin and smallness of mind, fear and anger, thank you that the light has come into the world. [00:19:56]

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Transcript
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Were there any personal stories shared?