WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 20

John 1:9  -The true light that gives light to everyone was  coming into the world.

Last Christmas, our most popular neighborhood attraction was a light display coordinated with holiday music. A sign in the yard invited passing vehicles to tune in to a certain number on the radio dial where the music would play while a computerized light show blinked and flashed in time to “Spirit of the Season” from the Polar Express movie. On most evenings, 4 or 5 cars could be found parked on the street outside the house enjoying the lights.  No doubt those cars were full of families oohing and ahhing over the splendor of lights blinking in single colors and then building with the crescendos of the music until thousands of little lights all shone together.  Christmas lights are always magical, but this display went beyond  the usual by incorporating the sense of sight with the emotional tug of beautiful music. I found myself driving by this house repeatedly, fascinated by the beauty and intrigued by how my neighbor engineered such a display.

When we think of the impact light has on us, it’s not surprising that John (I:9) referred to Jesus as the “true light.” Light brings us reassurance, hope and occasionally inspires in us a sense of awe.  In the lights of Christmas, we see the hope and magic that Jesus brought to the world.

I look forward eagerly to my neighbor’s display again this year. I hope to spend more time parked and  listening this year instead of just driving by. And as I watch the lights, I’ll ponder the  “true light” whose birth we celebrate in this season of twinkling lights.

Betsy B.