Joy to the World - George Frideric Handel / Isaac Watts, lyricist / Steven Amundson, arranger
© 2007, Steven Amundson. Used by permission.
Concordia Choirs / Concordia Sinfonietta
Out of Darkness, Light! (2018 Christmas Concert at Segerstrom Concert Hall)
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The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone. (Isaiah 9:2)
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. (John 1:14)
Isaiah’s prophecy is fulfilled. The eternal God has become one with us.
He has come into the world’s darkness—into our own darkness—and we have seen the glory of God in Christ Jesus. He comes, full of grace and truth. We will never be the same, for we belong to him, the Light and Savior of the world.
As daily recipients of his grace, we again celebrate the Nativity of our Savior. But his coming is not for us alone. As Jesus, the light of the world, shines on us, his light reflects to others.
You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, 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 5:14–16)
Such an honor, that God not only enlightens us, but uses us to bring his own light where it is needed! This, too, is a gift from God. Through Jesus, we are his beloved children. Through him, we reflect light to the world.
Merry Christmas!