Our scripture today is Isaiah 9:2 (ESV).
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone.
In Isaiah we find many prophetic references to the coming of Jesus. It’s no surprise that 18th century composer George Handel used several verses of Isaiah as the text for his oratorio “The Messiah”. This particular passage is a bass solo in the early portion of the piece. We have been walking in darkness since we chose our own way instead of God’s way. In the beginning, God subdued the darkness of chaos by saying “Let there be light.” Now He sends Jesus, the light of the world and the light of creation to offer us salvation from our sin. We have seen His light and we follow in faith.
Gracious God, in Your mercy You made a way for us to be saved from our sin. Bless us to go in Your name to share the Good News with everyone. Amen.
