Lighten Up

The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.

John 1:5

In the first chapters of the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, God reveals the story surrounding Jesus’ birth.  We are enlightened by a story of humility—of Christ’s taking human form in humility (Philippians 2:5-8) and of the story about Mary and Joseph, how they lived in obedience to God.  Mary and Joseph would have been overwhelmed with bewilderment and dread, they faced the heartache of embarrassing their families, the ridicule within their community, and cruel comments from judgmental, self-righteous synagogue members.  Yet, their humility before God was reflected by a direct response of obedience.  Joseph responded to the angel’s instructions, “he did what the angel of the Lord commanded him and took Mary to be his wife” (Matthew 1:18-25).  In Matthew 1 we read how Mary was confused and disturbed by the angel visiting her with news that she was the Lord’s favored, that she would bear the Son of God, and he would reign over his kingdom forever (Luke 1:26-38).  Mary’s response was “I am the Lord's servant” (v 38).  Their desire was for God’s will to be done; only in humility can one become a servant, putting self aside.  Then, in humble circumstances and surroundings the Christmas story unfolded—bringing light into the world.

It would have been easier to succumb to their community’s culture – beliefs that were like ours today, biases imbedded in ridicule.  Joseph and Mary didn’t say no to God, the shock of being spoken to by angels and the presence of God’s Spirit was overwhelming and, yes, brought questions, but that presence did not bring fear, nor did they display self-focused desires—through humility they gave up their lives for Christ, living for Jesus.

Seeing Christmas lights is intended to bring into our hearts thoughts of Christ, the Light of truth in the darkness, the gift salvation in the hearts all who receive him, Life.  Christmas lights also represent the humility of two young servants, who in obedience were humble and in submission, denying self to live and do God’s will.  Mary and Joseph had discovered not to be self absorbed, seeing themselves so serious, the learned to Lighten Up—to be humble and look up into the Light of salvation.  Their answer to God was, “Yes, we give our life for the Son, may his Light penetrate us and everyone in the surrounding darkness.  Your will be done Father.”

Owen <><