The Rest of the Story

In him was life, and the life was the light of men. John 1:4

Matthew, Mark, and Luke (the Synoptic gospels) emphasize the Kingdom of God and the Kingdom of Heaven. John instead emphasizes the new life found in Jesus. Everything was created through Him and His life brings light to His world.

Where would you be without the light of Jesus?

I know it's sometimes difficult in the mundane of everyday existence to see and feel the light of Jesus burning in your life. But remember, salvation does not mean that you become ethereal and detached from the cares and concerns of this life. But you're growing in your need for Jesus. You're loving Him and you're more aware of His presence. You're knowing Him and communicating with Him more and more. And you're growing in your concern for others. And you're actually loving people. Sometimes you're even surprised by the Biblical wisdom that comes out of your mouth.

The light of Jesus is getting brighter in you because His grace is doing its work. I am sure of it because He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus (Philippians 1:6).

Sure, you still have moments of disaster and failure. You sin. You act selfishly. You get angry when things don't go your way. And so do I. These moments remind us that it's not about us. And in humble confession we groan, waiting for the redemption of our bodies. And we celebrate Jesus! Praise and thank God for Jesus as you read 2 Corinthians 4:7:

We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves (2 Corinthians 4:7).