The Word is a Lamp
Arise, shine; for your light has come! And the glory of the LORD is risen upon you. For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and deep darkness the people; but the LORD will arise over you, and His glory will be seen upon you. Isaiah 60:1-2
Not everyone is a “morning” person. Some people do not like to get up early. Others cannot function until they have had their cup of coffee. Others still need to get revved up with some morning routine.
Spiritually, no one could say that they were a “morning” person. In a natural state of sin, the curtains are closed. It is a perpetual state of night. There is a tiredness that will not go away. For the congregation at his time, and for believers now, the prophet Isaiah flings open the curtains. He shows you the Light that has broken through the darkness. He shows that there is indeed life beyond the confines we sinners found ourselves in.
This promise Isaiah shares with them is a promise of the Messiah. This Messiah, who has been revealed as Jesus of Nazareth, is the Light of the world! “[God] has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.” (Colossians 1:13-14) It is a truth for Jew and Gentile alike.
Though the world may still have the curtains up, groggily wondering what to do next, we have the answer clearly shown to us in the Word. Isaiah says to “Arise, shine!” The Light has been given to you! “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” (John 8:12) Now reflect that light to those still in the darkness! “You are the light of the world… Let your light so shine before men.” (Matthew 5:14,16)
Rise, Thou Light of Gentile Nations, Jesus, bright and Morning Star;
Let Thy Word, the gladsome tidings, Ring out loudly near and far,
Bringing freedom to the captives, Peace and comfort to the slave,
That the heathen, free from bondage, May proclaim Thy power to save.
The Lutheran Hymnal 498:1