At Christmas: The Glory of God is the Source of Light
Isaac Megbolugbe
December 22, 2024
Introduction
At Christmas, we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, the embodiment of God’s glory. As we reflect on the significance of this event, let us explore the profound connection between God’s glory and the concept of light. The Glory of God, which is the radiance of His divine presence, is the source of all light, both on earth and in heaven. This article delves into the nature of God’s glory, its implications for humanity, and its intimate connection to the Christmas story.
The Glory of God: The Source of All Light
Both on Earth and in Heaven God’s Glory is the source of all the lights. As we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ during this Christmas season, let us reflect on the profound significance of light in the narrative of God’s redemption plan. The Glory of God, which is the radiance of His divine presence, is the source of all light, both on earth and in heaven. This article explores the concept of God’s glory as the source of light, its implications for humanity, and its connection to the Christmas story.
The Nature of God’s Glory
God’s glory is often described in Scripture as a brilliant, shining light that emanates from His presence. In Exodus 33:18-23, Moses asks to see God’s glory, and God responds by revealing His backside, as His face is too radiant for human eyes to behold. This encounter highlights the awe-inspiring nature of God’s glory, which is beyond human comprehension.
As the source of all light, God’s glory illuminates both the physical and spiritual realms. In Genesis 1:3-4, God speaks light into existence, separating day from night. This primordial light is a manifestation of God’s glory, which continues to sustain and govern the universe.
In the spiritual realm, God’s glory is the light that guides humanity towards salvation and redemption. Psalm 119:105 declares, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” God’s glory, as revealed through His Word, illuminates the path to eternal life, dispelling the darkness of sin and ignorance.
The Christmas Connection
The Christmas story is intimately connected to the theme of God’s glory as the source of light. The birth of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, marked the incarnation of God’s glory on earth. In John 1:14, we read, “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.”
The arrival of Jesus, the Light of the World (John 8:12), brought hope and redemption to a world shrouded in darkness. As we celebrate Christmas, we commemorate the moment when God’s glory, in the person of Jesus Christ, entered human history, illuminating the path to salvation and reconciliation with God.
Implications for Humanity
The recognition of God’s glory as the source of all light has profound implications for humanity. It reminds us that our existence is not self-generated, but rather, it is derived from the radiant presence of God. This understanding fosters humility, gratitude, and reverence for the divine.
Furthermore, acknowledging God’s glory as the source of light encourages us to seek guidance and wisdom from His Word, rather than relying solely on human understanding. As we bask in the light of God’s glory, we are transformed, and our lives become a reflection of His radiance.
As we celebrate Christmas, let us remember that the Glory of God, which is the source of all light, is the true essence of our rejoicing. May the radiance of God’s presence illuminate our lives, guiding us towards the path of righteousness, redemption, and eternal life. As we behold the glory of God, may our hearts be filled with wonder, our minds be filled with wisdom, and our lives be filled with the light of His presence.
How Does God’s Glory Relate to Salvation?
God’s glory plays a significant role in salvation, and here are some ways they are connected:
Revealing God’s Character: God’s glory reveals His character, nature, and attributes, such as His holiness, righteousness, and love. As people encounter God’s glory, they gain a deeper understanding of who He is and what He requires from humanity.
Conviction and Repentance: The revelation of God’s glory can convict people of their sin and lead them to repentance. When individuals experience God’s glory, they are confronted with their own sinfulness and the need for forgiveness and redemption.
Redemption and Forgiveness: God’s glory is closely tied to His redemption plan. Through Jesus Christ, God’s glory is revealed, and redemption is offered to humanity. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, which demonstrated God’s love and glory, provides forgiveness for sins and reconciliation with God.
Transformation and Sanctification: As people experience God’s glory, they are transformed and sanctified. God’s glory has a purifying effect, making believers more like Christ and enabling them to live a life that reflects God’s character.
Eternal Life and Glory: Ultimately, God’s glory is the destination of salvation. Believers who put their faith in Jesus Christ will one day see God’s glory face-to-face and experience the fullness of His presence for eternity.
Scripture Connections: Some key scriptures that illustrate the connection between God’s glory and salvation include:
1. Isaiah 6:1-5: Isaiah’s vision of God’s glory leads to his confession of sin and his call to ministry.
2. John 1:14: The Word (Jesus Christ) became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth, revealing God’s glory.
3. 2 Corinthians 3:18: Believers are transformed into the image of the Lord with ever-increasing glory.
4. Revelation 21:22-27: The glory of God illuminates the New Jerusalem, and believers will see His face and experience eternal joy. In summary, God’s glory is intricately connected to salvation, as it reveals God’s character, convicts people of sin, provides redemption and forgiveness, transforms and sanctifies believers, and ultimately leads to eternal life and glory.
Concluding Remarks
As we commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ, let us remember that the Glory of God is the true essence of our rejoicing. May the radiance of God’s presence illuminate our lives, guiding us towards the path of righteousness, redemption, and eternal life. As we behold the glory of God, may our hearts be filled with wonder, our minds be filled with wisdom, and our lives be filled with the light of His presence. May we, like the Magi, follow the star of God’s glory to the manger, where we find the source of all light, Jesus Christ, the Savior of humanity.
Isaac Megbolugbe, Director of GIVA Ministries International, 2024 Marquis Organization’s Class of Top Executives in the United States of America and a Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. He is resident in the United States of America.
