Isaiah 9:2 says ‘The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.’ John connects this with the arrival of Jesus, saying The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.’ (John 1:5) In his first letter, John goes on to tell us ‘God is light; in him there is no darkness at all’ (1 John 1:5) and God’s word is often described as a light to guide us. (Ps 119:105) That’s why one of the key Advent symbols is the candle.
The image of light is therefore inextricably linked with God. Today’s song is not, strictly speaking, an Advent song at all, but it does take this theme of light (starting with words from Ps 27:1) and reminds us that God will always grant us ‘enough light for the next step; enough light for the way ahead.’ Quite often, we feel like Isaiah said, as though we are walking in darkness, as though life has more mystery than clarity about it. God’s grace is sufficient for us at all times, providing enough light for us to follow His right paths.
‘You’re my light and my salvation
Through it all I won’t be shaken
Lead me on, O fire, in the night.
In the shadows, in the mystery
I’m not afraid, for You are with me, Lord.
I know that You will give
Enough light for the next step
Enough light
Enough light for the way ahead
Enough light
Ev’ry day that is to follow
I will trust You with tomorrow
In this life my hope is found in You
I set my sights on the horizon
Moving on towards Your promises
I know that You will give
You are shining brighter than the sun
You’re the light who was and is to come
Jesus, You are faithful, lead me on.’ (‘Enough Light’, Ben Cantelon & Nick Herbert)