New Year’s Eve – John 8:12-19

‘Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’ (John 8:12, NRSV)

Can you believe that 2014 is coming to a close? When the night is darkest 2015 will begin. The New Year always begins in darkness. In the darkness it is hard to see what is happening, to find which way to go. In the darkness strange things happen and unknown people move about doing unseen things. In the darkness 2014 ends with all its memories, accomplishments, disappointments, and changes. In the darkness 2015 begins and what lies ahead is unknown. In the darkness the unknown is frightening.

But Jesus said, ‘I am the light of the world’. We need a little light at the beginning of 2015 so we can see where we are going. Jesus says that if we follow him we will never walk in darkness. That feels good as we come to the darkness of this night. Jesus has been with us all this year and he is waiting for us as the year changes. Jesus will be there in the future to light the path and to lead the way. Jesus brings light into the dark places and Jesus brings light into our lives. When we see light we are assured that the darkness is over. So live in the light of Jesus and the darkness of the new beginning will not overwhelm you. Jesus will lead you through the darkness of midnight into the glory of a new year.

Light of the World, leads us by your light so that we can follow you into the adventure of 2015. Amen.

– Pastor Roxie Sullivan, First Presbyterian Church (Falls City, NE) and First Presbyterian Church (Hiawatha, KS)