Light is sown for the righteous, and joy for the upright in heart. Psalm 97:11 (ESV)

The Light of Christ fills us but it’s meant to shine through us as well. Tripp Prince

The Psalmist, centuries before the birth of Christ, spoke of a light that would dawn, a light that would be sown for the righteous and upright in heart. If we pause and think about it for a moment, it’s a curious metaphor, isn’t it? How can light be sown? Can you dig a hole in your garden, plant light, and see it grow? Though it may not be obvious at first, the answer is a resounding yes!

The incarnation of Jesus is the ultimate sowing of light into the soil of creation and our lives. Though small and vulnerable, like a precious seed, the fruit of Mary’s womb would grow to become a beacon of light that pierces through the deepest darkness, inviting all who have lost their way to draw near for safety and refuge. That same light still dawns for the righteous, bringing joy to all who draw near.

The light we receive from Christ makes us able to share that same light for Christ. The light of Christ fills us but is always meant to shine through us as well. We tend to the light sown within our hearts, while at the same time joining God in sowing that light, as the Christmas hymn reminds us, “far as the curse is found.”