‘He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. He Himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.’ (vv7–8) John 1:6–8
Lighthouses have existed since Egyptian times. Their purpose is to warn sailors of fatal danger. John the Baptist was a human lighthouse. Confident in his calling he chose a distinct path to express his message preparing people for the ministry of Jesus. He knew his identity and lived his purpose boldly.
Our mortal life acts as a living expression of God’s purpose. Just as Jesus became flesh to reveal God’s person and purpose (Heb. 1:1-2), so we are to live as witnesses to God’s reality.
On our journey to Christmas, we are not alone in our search for God. Like John, we’ve received our commission (Acts 1:8). We are to point in the direction of the babe born in Bethlehem and support people in their search for Jesus.
Interestingly we start right where we are – family, neighbours, colleagues – for this is our Judea. As with everything in life we start in our home and neighbourhood. John witnessed alone, yet we might draw confidence from offering hospitality alongside others.
Hence, ensure our church buildings, as well as our houses, have the reputation of providing hospitality. There are so many lonely people in search of a conversation, which affirms their value and establishes a social space in which they can forge friendships. Jesus was the master at initiating conversation with unlikely people (Luke 19:1–5).
SCRIPTURE TO CONSIDER: Isa. 62:1–7; Ezek. 33:1–9; Matt. 3:1–12; Rom. 10:14–20.
AN ACTION TO TAKE: Learn to live as a lighthouse. Begin to offer hospitality and start some conversations within your community.
A PRAYER TO MAKE: ‘Lord, just as You are the light of the world, help me to become a bright light for Jesus in my community. Amen.’
Image by Molly Rose Lee from Pixabay
