A Light has Dawned

In a few days, we will celebrate Epiphany, which commemorates the manifestation of Christ's divinity to the nations as represented by the Magi. These wise men came from the East bearing gifts for Jesus, a King born in humble surroundings. His unusual birth drew not only wise men from afar but humble shepherds from nearby fields, reminding us that He came for us all.

In 2 Peter 1:16-19, the apostle encouraged his fellow believers with these words, "We did not follow cleverly invented stories when we told you about the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of His majesty. For He received honor and glory from God the Father when the voice came to Him from the Majestic Glory, saying, 'This is My Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased.' We ourselves heard this voice that came from heaven when we were with Him on the sacred mountain.

"And we have the word of the prophets made more certain, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts."

In Revelation 22:16, Jesus calls Himself "the bright Morning Star." The prophet Isaiah spoke of this coming light hundreds of years before Jesus' birth, saying, "The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned." (Isaiah 9:2)

As the world-changing birth of Jesus drew the lowly shepherds and the wise men, so His light draws us now to come near, to know, and to worship Him. The bright Morning Star still shines in our hearts, dispelling all darkness and revealing the truth about ourselves and about God.

As Peter reminded believers of the certainty of their faith, encouraging them to stand firm and to remember their own epiphanies in coming to know Christ, so I invite you this week to recall your own moments of profound insight and revelation. May this inspire you to recommit your life to the One who gave everything - even His life - that we may know Truth and live.

May the light of Christ continue to shine brightly in our hearts in 2012 and always!
Dr Mari

This song and video contain someone's testimony. Although I don't know him, the poem he wrote expresses the experience of so many of us who have come to Jesus "just as we are" and tasted His living waters.