The Light of Christ

"I have come as light into the world, so that everyone who believes in me should not remain in the darkness. I do not judge anyone who hears my words and does not keep them, for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world.”

John 12:46-47

“A rising tide lifts all the boats” is a quote from a 1960 John F. Kennedy campaign speech. He used this metaphor referring to the idea that widespread economic growth and increasing opportunities would benefit all socio-economic groups in society. He was talking about the economy, but I think a similar sentiment can be said of the saving grace of Jesus.

Jesus came as light into the world for everyone, and all of God’s creation is illuminated by His light. All people receive God’s grace through the shining light of Jesus, even those who are not believers. Jesus said He does not judge those who hear His words and still do not follow — He came to save the world. Jesus told the disciples to go into the world, to baptize and to share the Good News. As followers of Jesus, we continue to share that Good News.

Though we are certainly called to share the Good News, we should remember that it is not up to us whether those with whom we share it receive it and believe it. Because Jesus came to save the world, we do not have to. Saving all humanity is not on our personal “to do” list.  Although we try to save our neighbor or the lost soul we encounter along the way, the outcome is not our responsibility.  We can trust that is in God’s hands.

We are called to love one another and to share the Good News. Like the rising economic tide lifting up the lives of all people, living our lives as faithful followers of Jesus cannot help but encourage all those around us. When we believe and encourage one another, it helps everyone we encounter. When we share God’s love, the light of Christ brightens the day for all people, no matter how dark their present circumstances are or where they began their faith journey.

A Prayer for Today

O heavenly Father, who hast filled the world with beauty: Open our eyes to behold thy gracious hand in all thy works; that, rejoicing in thy whole creation, we may learn to serve thee with gladness; for the sake of him through whom all things were made, thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (Book of Common Prayer, page 814)