Message Notes

INTRODUCTION

1. Learning about the joy that God gives

a. To help us discover this joy personally

b. To help us deepen this joy in our lives

2. Rejoicing in the Lord Jesus as our Light

a. This was a joy that Zacharias found   (Luke 1:78-79)

b. This is a joy that we all can find too

THE NEED FOR LIGHT

1. Darkness

a. Darkness is the absence of light

b. Darkness will continue as long as there is no light

c. Darkness symbolizes sin and evil

2. Light

a. It enlightens and dispels darkness

b. It gives clarity

c. It guides

3. Those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death   (Luke 1:79a)

a. They are unable to get out of darkness

b. They will eventually die in darkness

c. Only light can save those who are in darkness

REJOICING IN THE LORD JESUS AS OUR LIGHT

1. He is the Dayspring (dawn) from on high   (Luke 1:78)

a. God in His tender mercy sent us the Lord Jesus

b. The Lord Jesus came to be Light of the world

2. He gives light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death   (Luke 1:79a)

a. He gives light to all who are in darkness

b. The light He gives enables us to

i. Recognize the sins in our lives

ii. Seek forgiveness of sins

iii. Receive the salvation He offers

3. His light guides our feet into the way of peace   (Luke 1:79b)

a. His light will guide us to peace of the soul

b. Peace comes

i. Because we are reconciled to God

ii. Because we are assured of everlasting life with God

ENCOURAGEMENT TO US ALL

1. To rejoice in the Lord Jesus as our Light

a. He has come to be our Light

b. He can enlighten our lives

i. No matter how great the darkness is

ii. No matter how long one has been in darkness

c. His light guides us to peace of the soul regardless of life’s challenges

2. To conclude the year

a. With a deep sense of joy in the Lord Jesus

b. With heartfelt praise for the Lord Jesus