In the Gospel of John, Jesus said, “I am the light of the world.” This declaration from over 2000 years ago holds true today. It should flood our souls with hope as we begin 2023.

Here in America, we’ve seen the devastating effects of darkness. It’s hard to believe the moral decline in our nation in recent years. Yet, we must remind ourselves that Jesus is the light of the world. He is a beacon of eternal hope for those who choose to follow Him.

Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life (John 8:12).”

We see many in the world today consuming things that fail to satisfy. Some seek satisfaction in entertainment. Others are consumed by climbing the ladder of success. And there are those who feed on popularity. Still, they remain hungry. But there’s hope in Jesus, the one who said, “I am the living bread.”

I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. And the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh (John 6:51).”

Jesus said, “I am the true vine; you are the branches.” For years I lived far from Christ. I wasn’t connected to Him in the least bit. I knew about Jesus; my dad made sure of that. But I pursued the things of the world.

Thankfully, God brought me to the end of myself. I was miserable, empty, and feeling the weight of my sinfulness. I pleaded with God to save me, to rescue me from my wickedness. And I’m happy to say that’s what He did! That night there in my home in Winona, Mississippi I was forever joined to Jesus.

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing (John 15:4-5).

To the disconnected, to the hungry, to those who’ve spent their lives embracing darkness, Jesus extends this invitation:

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light (Matthew 11:28-30).

What an unexpected invitation; what an undeserved kindness. Instead of pushing us far away, Jesus says, “Come to me.” You can be certain that this invitation is extended to you today.

What better way to start the new year than to turn from your self-centeredness and cast yourself on Christ Jesus? You will find rest for your soul.

For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved (Romans 10:13).

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