Christmas 2020: The True Light Still Shines In the Darkness

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it... The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us…” -John 1:5; 9-14 (ESV)

While 2020 needs no year in review, it’s no stretch to describe many of its moments as “dark.” So it seems especially exciting to have so many celebrations at this time of year which include elements of light. Whether special use of candles or festive decorations, drive-thru displays or consideration of stars, there’s a cheer and wonder these lights can bring.

With just the two of us, we sometimes skip concerted holiday decorating efforts, but we actually cracked open a box this year to discover a couple forgotten sets of unopened solar lights. Given all the dark spots of 2020, and inspired by others doing the same, we decided to light things up a bit more than usual this season, gradually expanding our display in hopes of bringing a touch of brightness to anyone passing by.

Looking at lights in this year like no other—from our meager presentation to every holiday display, and on up to those in the sky—I’m reminded each one is a representation of something greater and brighter and more true. And as we look for something bright in a world often dark, we need look no further than a much celebrated baby in a manger to begin to see that true light.

This light came into a world of darkness, God Himself made flesh. He illuminated what it means to be fully human, to live as the light of the world. On Earth’s darkest day, that light was momentarily snuffed out, only to reignite in glorious resurrection. This is the light shining in the darkness that the darkness could not overcome. Instead, overcoming the darkness within and around us, this blazing glory makes it possible for us to know God, and to one day see our dark world shine bright again. And this true light is the Lord Jesus Christ.

Earlier this year, I considered that we never know what tomorrow may bring, as 2020 certainly proved. As I quoted then from Ephesians 5, “Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” This remains my prayer and encouragement for you, regardless what another year brings, to trust Jesus and truly experience His love and light that overcomes the darkness.

Hoping your holidays are merry and bright!

Art: Unsplash.com