The morning light from heaven is about to break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness. Luke 1:78–79
“We’re going to give God all the glory right now.” The organ plays, the choir begins to sway, and the congregation starts to sing. But this is no church service, and the speaker is no preacher. Instead, it’s a rap artist at Britain’s Glastonbury music festival. That night he leads the 100,000-strong crowd to sing a gospel song about being “broken” and unworthy of God’s help but “blinded” by His grace.
This spiritual interlude in a secular festival may seem surprising, but I think it makes sense. One British poll found that a fifth of those who don’t believe in Jesus pray during a crisis, suggesting that deep down a surprising number of people are “religious.” A time comes when we realize that we’re broken and need Someone greater than us to fix our dark world.
An answer to these prayers came on the first Christmas. At the news of Jesus’ coming birth, Mary sang of corrupt leaders being brought low (Luke 1:52) and Zechariah sang that a light had come “to give light to those who sit in darkness” (v. 79). After Christ’s birth, angels sang of peace coming to earth (2:13–14). Through Jesus, an unworthy world was about to receive God’s help.
So, with Zechariah, let’s thank God that the Light has come this Christmas. With that rap artist, let’s marvel at its blinding brilliance. And let’s pray that one day every stage will announce Jesus’ arrival and every heart prepare Him a home. Sheridan Voysey
Why is it vital for us to grasp our unworthiness and brokenness before God? Into what area of life do you need His light to shine?
Jesus, Light of the world, though I’m unworthy, You came to save me. Today I’m amazed again by Your grace!
Luke 1:67–79
67 Then his father, Zechariah, was filled with the Holy Spirit and gave this prophecy: 68 “Praise the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has visited and redeemed his people. 69 He has sent us a mighty Savior from the royal line of his servant David, 70 just as he promised through his holy prophets long ago. 71 Now we will be saved from our enemies and from all who hate us. 72 He has been merciful to our ancestors by remembering his sacred covenant—73 the covenant he swore with an oath to our ancestor Abraham. 74 We have been rescued from our enemies so we can serve God without fear, 75 in holiness and righteousness for as long as we live. 76 “And you, my little son, will be called the prophet of the Most High, because you will prepare the way for the Lord. 77 You will tell his people how to find salvation through forgiveness of their sins. 78 Because of God’s tender mercy, the morning light from heaven is about to break upon us, 79 to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, and to guide us to the path of peace.”
