Hope for the Future

Scripture: Jesus said, "I have come as a Light to shine into this dark world, so that all who put their trust in Me will no longer remain in the darkness. John 12:46

Our world is becoming very dark. Increased violence everywhere, even in my "quiet" home town. Corrupt world leaders care more about their egos than their countries. Justice is turned upside down, when right is wrong and wrong is right. Despite these frightening signs, we can enter the new year with hope. Why? Because Jesus said, "I am the light of the world."

No amount of darkness can put out the light. Try it sometime. Bring one small candle into a darkened room. Will the darkness put out the light? No! Light always conquers darkness; even the small light of a candle makes a difference. Though darkness may rule for awhile, God’s light is forever. One example comes to mind.

For seventy years, atheistic communism did its utmost to stamp out the light of Jesus. Churches were closed and made into granaries; their pastors were sent to Siberia; Bibles were destroyed. It became a criminal offense to celebrate Christmas. My mother said that, as a young girl living in Ukraine, singing a few Christmas carols got them into serious trouble. It was a very dark time for Russia.

Gary, my brother-in-law, traveled to Russia during the time when communism was strong. Being a history professor, he visited Lenin’s tomb. The lineup stretched for several blocks into the city.

A few years later, Gary was in Russia again. Once more he visited Lenin’s tomb. This time there was no lineup. In fact, the building was empty. As he turned to leave, he saw a church building and people were flocking into it. The Light of Jesus Christ had triumphed over the darkness of communism!

So, let’s take courage and enter the new year with hope: Jesus is still the Light of the world.

What can we do? Pray for the leaders of our country, town, and church. Spread the light of Jesus around your neighborhood. How? Speak the truth in love. Invite someone to share a meal with you. Visit a shut-in person. Support a charity of your choice. Can you suggest other ways?

Lord Jesus, I want to let my light shine so that others will be attracted to You and come into the Light of Life.