His Power and Glory Evermore Proclaim! (from “O Holy Night”)

By Dorothea “Dodi” Wright
London, England

Scripture Reading:
Isaiah 9:2
2 Samuel 22:29|
Revelation 21:23
Psalm 119:130

And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light.  God saw that the light was good, and he separated the light from the darkness. [emphasis mine]
Genesis 1:3-4 (NIV)

What is this light that is referred to in this Genesis verse? From my limited knowledge, I would suggest that the light is the sun which illuminates the stars and shows us the moon.  It physically reveals what is to be physically seen.  The Son (Jesus) likewise lights up the unseen, the spiritual darkness which we need so desperately to be able to navigate in order to “see” through the dark.

So what mindset are we in as we step into this season of Advent 2022?  As Jesus said, “I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness.” [emphasis mine]  (John 12:26, NIV).

With the winter nights drawing in, physical darkness seems so prevalent in our lives and we can find our moods may be dampened.  I don’t really feel comfortable in the dark because darkness is frightening! Sunlight is the natural resource that will lift our moods during these months if we make the most of the morning daylight hours; and, of course, we can rely on artificial lighting.

The antidote for our spiritual darkness is “The Light of the World”-- “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12, NIV).  Jesus’ illumination is a spiritual phenomenon that is remarkable and exceptionally good.  A phenomenon is defined as something being, “known through the senses rather than through thought.” In essence, this light is not seen, but felt.

So where can we find this light?  Just like the shepherds who followed the star that led them to the Son in the stable in Bethlehem on that Holy Night, we (just like those ordinary, humble, shepherds) can also follow the light to the Son.   During this time of Advent, we can practically carry this light with us. Just like Olympic torchbearers carry their lit batons to the beacon, we too can carry the light of Jesus in our hearts—a beacon to  illuminate those around us who are in darkness and guide them to the Son.

Even in the midst of winter when the daylight is sparse, the Son never ceases to shine for us.  He is leading us to lead others to the home of the “light,” our spiritual home, which is in the heavenly realms. 

Questions for Reflection:

1.      What mindset are you in presently as we prepare to reflect on our Lord and Saviour’s power and glory at Christmas?
2.      What are some ways you can reflect Jesus’ light to the people around you this season?
3.      What inspires you to proclaim Christ’s power and glory? What tempts you to shrink back from that?

Today I will:

Here are some scriptural references which I have found helpful and you might like to reflect on during this special time of year. Reflect on these words and tell someone today about the light Jesus has brought into your life.

Isaiah 9:2 NIV
The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.

2 Samuel 22 v 29 NIV
“You, Lord, are my lamp; the Lord turns my darkness into light”

Revelation 21:23 NIV
The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp

Psalm 119:130 NIV
The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple

About the Author:

Dodi was born in Southern India and came to the U.K. at age 15.  After finishing her education, she entered the banking world and recently retired from a 53-year career. Dodi has two adult daughters and four delightful grandchildren.  She has always had a deep love for Jesus since childhood and became a disciple 32 years ago in London.

To hear a special version of "O Holy Night" performed by your sister Amy Kinzer, please click the image below: