MONDAY, MARCH 22
Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow Me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”
John 8:12 (NLT)
I AM THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD
William Barclay explains that John 8 occurred the day after the final day of the Feast of the Tabernacles. This event happened near the Court of Women. On the first evening of the feast, a ceremony called The Illumination of the Temple took place in the Court of Women. When the darkness came, they lit four great candelabras. They sent such a blaze of light through Jerusalem that every courtyard lit up with their brilliance.
With this backdrop in mind, Jesus claims to be the Light of the World. He didn’t just claim to be “a” light of the world; He claimed to be “The” Light of the World. The Jewish leaders of the day knew He was making another “I Am” statement and claiming to be God. He claimed to be the only way to God and gave an inclusive offer to anyone who would believe in Him.
Reflection
Biblical light symbolizes eternal life, true knowledge, and God’s holiness. When we come to Jesus, we receive all the blessings of the Light. How has Jesus brought light into your life?
Praise
If you are able, light a candle and spend some time praising God for the metaphor that light represents.
