John 8:12
When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world.
Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
Matthew 5:16
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see
your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Many folks choose a word of the year. Me included.
In 2024, I focused on the word contentment and spent the
year reflecting on being content in all circumstances. At times, I struggled
with the thought of contentment. Other times, I counted my blessings. By the
end of the year, I found myself being more thankful than ever.
In December, amidst the preparations for Christmas, I prayed
about a word for 2025. It seemed like the word light popped up
everywhere I turned, in Bible readings, in songs, of course, all the holiday
lights, and even in my Dove dark chocolate square.
When I looked up Bible verses with the word light, I found
two truths to focus on, and I’ll be honest, being light feels a bit
overwhelming, but I know God is calling me and will equip me.
John 8:12 reminds me Jesus is the light in a dark world. He
offers hope against the darkness and fills my heart with light. In this world
we live in, there is a spiritual war between the darkness of sin and the light
of Jesus. Because I’m a child of God—I’m also a warrior of light. A bearer of
good, hope, and love.
To help me shine for Jesus, I’m reflecting on the Fruit of
the Spirit—love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
gentleness and self-control. Imagine how bright we’d shine as God’s children when
we take on all of these attributes. As a warrior of light, I’m also a prayer
warrior, bending God’s ear to survive and thrive.
I pray I don’t fail to be a light for Jesus, as I seek God’s
help in shining for him.
What will 2025 bring for you? I pray it is a year filled
with hope and light.
