Isaiah 9:1-4 (NRSV)
Read Isaiah 9:1-4 on biblegateway.com
Chapter 9But there will be no gloom for those who were in anguish. In the former time he brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time he will make glorious the way of the sea, the land beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations. Verse 2The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness- on them light has shined. Verse 3You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder. Verse 4For the yoke of their burden, and the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian.
Devotion
I remember walking alone on the path at night when I was a counselor at Camp Amnicon on Lake Superior. There was thick darkness from the woods on either side of the path. The light shone down on the path through the clearing between the trees. As I looked up at the light I was not afraid.
We all know well the fears of the darkness, not only the darkness outside us but the darkness within as we encounter the fears, cracks, and brokenness of life. We give thanks that there is One who comes to shine a great light as we walk in the midst of darkness. Jesus, the light of the world, the light no darkness can overcome is born for you. You need not be afraid. Jesus will light your path, hold you, walk beside you, and carry you home.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You are the lamp unto our feet and the light for our path. Shine, O shine in our lives Lord Jesus. Amen.