“The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” John 1:9

Have you ever spent time out in the forest? Outside of the reach of modern electric lights, it’s amazing how dark and close the woods can feel. You’ll stumble over roots directly in front of you and snap your face on branches you didn’t even see because your vision couldn’t penetrate the thick bewilderment of darkness. That is how the Bible describes humanity without God.

Jesus came as a great light to our darkness. And what a light he is. Among apes, Mongols, and barbarians, he is a prince. Among princes, he is a star! Isaiah says kings will stand to their feet to honor him, and princes will bow on their faces to revere him.

Try to find his equal. He is full of intellect and passion. He is a wrecking ball against evil but a gentle healing salve to the broken. He is discerning and sees through human maneuvering, but he is forgiving and gracious to the sincere person who needs a second and third chance. He is settled, never responding to offense or craving power, but only serving the truth and serving others. He is the perfection of love that would sacrifice himself. He is purposeful but infectious. Personable but stately. Mystical and practical. He served the ambition of the highest good—to see love and truth and good prevail on earth. He is Jacob’s ladder; his feet on the earth, and spirit in the heavens. He stands unique and stands alone.

As a sunflower turns its face to the sun, as a moth is drawn to a flame, I tell you—gaze at him. Fall in love again and again. Study him. Emulate him. Yes, worship him. Humanity is in need of role models. Humanity is in need of wise counselors to guide us. We are together in need of a lamp to lead us. He is the greatest light the world has ever seen. He vanishes the darkness in every direction we employ him. And he is the salvation of human life. Listen to his words and come to him, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12). These are either the words of a madman or the words of more than a man—the greatest of men who ever lived.

Tags: worship, jesus, hope, light, study, good, noble, prince, adore