LOTS of carol services will use the reading from the book of Isaiah in the Bible that talks about the light which is dawning on the people living in darkness – we’re going to begin our 6pm Carol service on Christmas Eve with it.

There are people in darkness, longing for more light, every Christmas. And yet the words feel still more resonant this year – we are perhaps aware of greater darkness in our world at the moment.

Another well-known Christmas reading names Jesus as the Light which shines in the darkness and will not be overwhelmed by that darkness. 

Interestingly though, Jesus isn’t precious about keeping that title “Light of the World” to Himself.

In fact, He says to the people around Him: “You are the light of the world!”

When we feel overwhelmed by the sadness and suffering of the world we can allow ourselves to be cowed by it.

The greater, and better, path is to find ways in which we can be light in and for the world around us, even if it begins with just a fragile flickering flame.

Merry Christmas from everyone at CCC, we pray that you shine in 2024!

James Gregory

Lead Pastor

Crediton Congregational Church