For God, who said, “Let there be light in the darkness,” has made this light shine in our hearts so we could know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ.
(2 Corinthians 4:6 NLT)

I was walking home in darkness that falls too early this time of year. When I stopped to tie my bootlace I realized I was standing under the neighbour’s lamp stand at the end of their driveway. The darker the sky grew the brighter the light grew in  comparison.

Even in dark times our loving Father makes the light to shine in our hearts as we abide in Christ and he indwells us. This is  my first Christmas without my Dad since he is celebrating with Mom and Grandma and Grandpa and the rest of the cloud of witnesses this year. This is also the first Christmas since my husband’s brother passed away. Tears fall easily lately, but even in sorrow there is hope. The mystery hidden for ages is now made known. Christ in us, the hope of glory.

Have you noticed how many Christmas carols are about the light shining in the darkness? One of my favourites is Candlelight Carol by John Rutter. Candlelight, angel light, fire light and star glow.