In today's message, Pastor Phil explored the profound theme of light and darkness, especially in the context of the Christmas season. We began by acknowledging the burdens and stresses that many of us carry during this time of year, and the invitation from God to find rest in Him, as expressed in Psalm 62. This scripture reminds us that God is our refuge and fortress, and we are encouraged to pour out our hearts to Him.

We delved into the concept of darkness, both literal and metaphorical, and how it represents the unknown, difficulties, and spiritual negativity. However, the focus was on the transformative power of light, as seen in Genesis 1, where God commands, "Let there be light." This light is not just physical but also spiritual, symbolizing hope, guidance, and the presence of God in our lives.

We are called to be the light of the world, as stated in Matthew 5:14-16. This calling challenges us to let our light shine before others, reflecting God's love and goodness. The message emphasized that being the light involves intentionality in how we speak and treat others, standing firm in our values, and staying close to God's Word. These actions require faith and courage, especially in a world that often feels dark and overwhelming.

The sermon also highlighted the importance of being connected to the power source, which is God, to truly shine as lights in the world. This connection is likened to flipping a light switch, where we have the resources but need to activate them through faith and action. We were encouraged to embrace our identity as children of God, called to bring light into the darkness around us.

In closing, we were reminded of God's faithfulness in guiding us through the darkest moments, as illustrated by various biblical stories. The message concluded with an invitation to respond to God's call, to accept Christ, and to commit to being a light in the world.