As we enter the new year of our Lord 2021 – the year of light –  let us praise the Lord who is the light of the world. Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12)

Satan and his powers of darkness have tried to extinguish the light of Christ during this past year, through disunity, a deadly pandemic, and persecution. But he has failed, because the light continues to shine in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome the light of the world. (John 1:5) 

Let us proclaim loudly as we enter this new year that God is the light of the world. He shines today, and He will shine forevermore. Yes, the people who are walking in great darkness will see a great light. 

You are shining on your children today, Lord, and on me. The dazzling reflection of the light of Your glory has focused on us, and on every human on this planet. Darkness may increase and attempt to block the light. Darkness of pride, rebellion and sin in my own life and in the world’s evils, will make the attempt. But they cannot block the light of God. 

What should we do as we enter this new year? What should be our first step? The psalmist gives us the answer: “Blessed be the name of the Lord from this time forth and forevermore! From the rising of the sun to its setting, the name of the Lord is to be praised! (Psalm 113:2-3)

Begin now and continue each day to bless the name of the Lord. Bless Him each moment of this day and forevermore. The power of praise is that it keeps us focused on the Lord, and not on the distresses surrounding us. We become full of light, and His reflection will fall on others and bring them into the awareness that God is shining on them also. 

Lord, may this new year reveal Your light through Your people. Remember: “Light dawns in the darkness for the upright!” (Psalm 112:4) People will see God’s grace, His mercy and His justice, in you.