The Word Became Flesh: An Advent Devotional Day 8

 

Day 8: The Light Has Come

By Dr. Dimas Castillo

Scripture Reading: John 1:4-5 "In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it."

Reflection

Jesus is not just “a” light—He is The Light. In Him resides life itself, the uncreated, unoriginated divine life. Just as we need physical light for biological life, we desperately need His divine light for supernatural, eternal life. The good news of Christmas is that this Light came into the world specifically to penetrate our darkness. The Light was born in Bethlehem for you. Whatever shadows you face today—grief, fear, shame, confusion—know that Jesus' mission was to shine into precisely that darkness.

Consider

- What areas of your life feel dark right now?

- How does it change your perspective to know that Jesus came specifically to shine into your darkness?

- The Light "has not overcome" the darkness—what hope does this unchangeable truth offer you today?

Application

Identify one specific area of darkness in your life. Throughout today, consciously invite Jesus to shine His light there. You might pray, "Jesus, Light of the world, shine into my [fear/grief/confusion/sin]."

Prayer

Lord Jesus, You are the Light that darkness cannot overcome. I confess that parts of my life feel shrouded in shadow. Thank You that You came to penetrate my darkness with life-giving light. Shine into the hidden places of my heart today. Amen.