Christmas Day Reflection

BY Katherine Ruhle

It’s Christmas - a time when we celebrate a central moment of the Christian story: that in Jesus Christ, the Light of the World has come to dwell among us. In the ordinary setting of a crowded town, in uncertain and humble circumstances, light broke into darkness - not with fanfare, but with quiet faithfulness. The birth of Christ is more than a beautiful moment; it is a profound declaration that darkness does not have the final word.

Recently, the BBC shared a story that echoes the tension between light and darkness. In a remote part of Peru, a small group of families continues to live in literal darkness. Without access to the national electricity grid, they cook over open fires and spend their nights without light. What makes this more striking is that just beyond their homes, they can see one of the largest solar energy complexes in Latin America. It shines brightly, sending power to hundreds of thousands of homes while these families remain in shadow. The contrast is painful. The light is near, yet it does not reach them. The government is aware of the situation, but nothing changes. The families remain in darkness.

This image speaks powerfully to us on Christmas Day. Christ came not only to bring light but to extend it - to reach those left in darkness, on the margins, and in forgotten places. As His followers, we are now bearers of that light. So today, let’s reflect on:

• Where are we seeing God’s light shining with hope, peace, joy, and love, in our lives and in the world around us?
• Who still sits in darkness - physically, spiritually, or socially - because of our inaction, inattention, or apathy?
• What is God saying to us, as light-bearers, in the face of those still waiting for hope to arrive?

The light of Christ is not just a comforting glow; it’s a call. A call to see, to act, and to shine. As we rejoice in the birth of Jesus, may we also renew our commitment to bring His light to those still in darkness. The Light has come - not to be kept, but to be shared.

The BBC story can be found here