Devotional Thoughts Based on the Glory to God Hymnal

Isaiah 9:2

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness – on them light has shined.

As one who really appreciates the great hymnody of the church, I acknowledge that my appreciation for and acceptance of contemporary Christian songs have been slow in coming. There are some Christian songs that I like, and this is one of them.

Lord, the light of your love is shining,
In the midst of the darkness shining;
Jesus, Light of the world, shine upon us
set us free by the truth you now bring us, shine on me, shine on me.
Shine, Jesus, shine;
Fill the land with the Father’s glory
Blaze, Spirit, blaze; set our hearts on fire.
Flow, river, flow; flood the nations with grace and mercy.
Send forth your word, Lord, and let there be light.

We see the scriptural allusion to Isaiah 9:2 and understand the reference to Jesus as the Light of the world. Commentators writing about this Christian song understand verse 3 as a response to the Transfiguration. Sing/listen:

As we gaze on your kingly brightness, so our faces display your likeness;
Ever changing from glory to glory
Mirrored here may our lives tell your story
shine on me, shine on me….

Prayer

Dear God, let our faces reveal that we know You. Let the light of Your love shine through us. Help us to bear Your light into the dark places of this world. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.