Light wars have begun! It is that time of year when those excited for the extended darkness of the winter season warm up the Christmas cheer with lots of lights to brighten even the Scroogiest of Scrooges. Not only are there are movies and shows and books and songs chronicling magnificent light displays, but you can also find them in your communities – and perhaps at your very own home.   

As the lights begin to go up, there are decorations for all tastes:

• Simple and white: Not too many bunched together. Even symmetry among every light and every strand. Polished look.
• Festive and colorful: Lots of different colors used in a variety of ways – haphazardly strewn over a few branches in a tree just to add a splash of color, or meticulously placed so that colors follow a pattern and are happy for the beholder. Classic look.
• Monochromatic: Each bush, tree, pole or décor has its own color. Used in individual blocks, or in combination, carefully keeping each color to itself. A newer scheme to Christmas lighting. Bold look.
• Enthusiastic and plentiful: Generally not much rhythm or rhyme to the light placement. Nothing feels neglected for not being covered in the festive bright spots. Generous use of color, steadiness, size, and shape of the lighting. Celebratory look.

There will always be differing opinions as to the BEST use of lights because we all have different tastes. Even within a family unit, lively conversation may take place regarding the proper use (or non-use) of lights: Size of the lights. Amount of lighting. Twinkle, chase, flash, or steady-on. Inflatables? Spotlights? Will the lights be set to music and channeled through a radio frequency?

No matter your preference, you must admit that these festive seasonal additions make outings in the dark much more interesting. We cannot help but look, whether it is to admire, ridicule, or simply take in. Our eyes are drawn toward the light.

Perhaps this is why Jesus says, “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” (Matthew 5: 14) When light shines in the darkness, it is seen. The Lord tells us in His Word not to hide our light, but rather to share and shine! “Let your light shine before others so that they may see your good works, and give glory to your father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16) People notice when we lead a life that honors God. We then highlight His characteristics: Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, goodness, faithfulness, and self-control. These characteristics penetrate a dark world.  Some people may criticize, ridicule, or be irritated by this light. Conversely, they may respond to the beauty and warmth of the lights and be drawn to the source of the light! “God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.” (I John 1:5)

Not only are all who follow Jesus shining His light in the world, but we each shine that light differently. Just as our Christmas light displays vary, individual personalities, skills, and locations give different filters and colors to the lights we shine, thus varying the impact each follower of Jesus makes in the world.

Similarly, the way Jesus’s light is received by those in the world, also differs. Some respond to a simple steady display, that is constant, bright, and effective. Some are moved by random, sporadic life events where the light is present and powerful. No matter how Jesus’s light is accepted, the result is a radiant joy as we “proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” (I Peter 2:9)

The Christmas season is a wonderful excuse to talk about the light of Jesus. It is the reason for the season. Share it! Whether you are flashy and bold, or more quiet and steady, our Savior’s light shining out of us will cause people to take notice. Jesus will do the rest!