4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. – John 1:4-5

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

We live in a world full of darkness. The year 2020 has been a painful reminder of this. This year has brought us face to face with the selfishness of humanity; the realities of sickness and death. We have heard about innocent men and women being abused and murdered. We have seen riots on the streets. Our world is one that can be cruel and dark. Yet into this darkness, the good news of Advent is a light that has shone. A light so powerful that darkness cannot overcome. This is the light of Jesus Christ.

His light dawned 2000 years ago when he was born. As Jesus grew, his light shone into the darkness. He healed the sick, made the blind see, made the deaf hear, helped the lame walk. He gave life to the dead. He calmed raging storms and restored the mentally ill. He gave peace to those who were anxious, and rest to the weary. He brought comfort to the broken-hearted. He came near to the outcasts, and accepted those who were different. He challenged injustice and corruption. On the cross, the darkness of death could not hold him as he rose again to new life. This death and resurrection has defeated death, the devil, and his armies of darkness once and for all. Jesus truly is the light of life and one day He will return. On this day, his victory will be fully seen and the darkness of this world will be finally overcome. As we enter into this season of Advent let’s fix our hopes and dreams on this reality. Let’s remember that Christ is coming back and on the day he returns all darkness will be no more. As we wait for this day let’s make sure that we are shining with the light of Christ so that people may see our deeds and praise our Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:16)

Yours in Christ

Mark