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Armor of light



During the Advent season, we look forward to the light that brings hope that brightens the lives of people who are in darkness. "The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death [ land of darkness ] a light has dawned." (Matthew 4:16, Isaiah 9:2). The season of advent starts four Sundays before Christmas day and ends with the celebration of the birth of Jesus on Christmas day. This also marks the beginning of the Christian year. The word Advent originated from Latin and means, “coming” or “arrival.” It is a countdown with anticipation to the coming of the savior. Jesus was born into this world as a small child in a manger as the savior. We are also in a countdown to His second coming as the King who will establish God’s kingdom in this world.

Jesus said, “I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness.” (John 12:46). Jesus came to this world "to open eyes that are blind, to free captives from prison and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness” (Isaiah 42:7). When Christ comes into a life or a situation, He will brighten the days ahead with possiblities that we were never seen before. The blind will see the beauty, the prisoner will experience freedom and those who are waiting in sadness and disappointments will see the light of vicotry and success.

The moon does not produce light in itself, but reflects the light of the sun. Similarly, as we walk with God, we reflect God's light around us. Paul says, “The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.” (Romans 13:12). Just like a soldier wearing an armor, we wear an armor of light that invades the darkness of evil by way of our thoughts, words and deeds.

Our life is full of countdowns from the moment we are born. We count down to the various stages like sitting up, standing up, taking the first baby steps, school, college, marriage, children, family and career to old age,retirement and death. Moses prayed, "Teach us to count our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom" (Psalm 90:12). Just like the prophet Isaiah and the people were waiting with a count down to the coming of the messiah, we also are in a countdown towards His second coming that gives the hope of a brighter tomorrow.

In the world today, darkness seems to hide people from seeing each other. Hatred and animosity are increasing between people and nations. We are not patient to slow down to listen and to see different perspectives. We are becoming more and more judmental without understanding the clear picture. Our evil deeds hide the light of goodness. Jesus said, "If your eyes are bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness." (Matthew 6:23). Jesus is the light that no darkness can conquer. His light beams bright today through the lives of His followers. "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:14).

Blessings

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