Light of the World: Day One
Let There Be Light
Read Genesis 1:1-3
Before time began in eternity past, there was darkness. Nothing but darkness. Nothing but a pitch black, hopeless, helpless void.
Then suddenly, in the midst of the darkness, a voice like thunder commanded, “Let there be light,” and there was light.
These are the first recorded words we have of God. He stepped into time and space and the very first thing he did was bring forth light. He shattered the darkness with nothing more than his words. It can only be a great and glorious God that speaks light into existence and steps into time and space to create the world ex nihilo (out of nothing).
Can you imagine our world without light? What would it be like to grope around in darkness being unable to see? The world would be a dangerous and dull place to live. Yet God in his infinite wisdom and kindness did not create the world to be a dark, dangerous, and dull place but rather, a place that was created to reflect the beauty of the one who created it. Not only this, but light is essential for life. Both plants, animals, and mankind cannot live, let alone thrive, in darkness. From the very beginning of time, God has been in the business of casting light into the darkness. Why? Because it brings him glory.
The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.
Psalm 19:1
God created the light, and the rest of the world for that matter, in order that he would be glorified through and by his creation. Just as the artist deserves full praise and honor for his masterpiece, so too God deserves all our praise and honor for creating this intricate, beautiful, and fascinating world.
For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made…
Romans 12:1
Action Point: As we begin our 3-week Advent journey, take a few moments today to meditate on these realities and praise God for being the wise Creator who has graciously and powerfully given light to his creation. As you see lights sparkling on your tree and lighting up your neighborhood, remember and give thanks to the God who brought forth light from darkness on that very first day thousands of years ago.