December 5th 2025

“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.” Isaiah 9:2

As I was contemplating this verse in preparation for this devotional and a moment popped into my head that I thought was such a great illustration of “light” - specifically that of Jesus. Normally when I read this verse I connect it to Jesus being “a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” because no one likes a stumped toe and I sure do not like making bad decisions, so knowing the path I’m supposed to take is always appreciated. But confining Jesus to a map so you don’t screw up is putting him in a box that is too small and too shallow. So this time when I read that verse I’m thankful that the image that popped into my head was an intimate firepit. Because Jesus wants to know you. In fact, he doesn’t just want to know you and know your decisions, he wants to be there with you. It’s true that Jesus is our rescuer but it doesn’t mean keeping us from harm, because I think we all know by now that horrible things can happen to really great people that make really great decisions that also really love the Lord. The Rescuer part is about rescuing us from despair. He’s the bringer of hope…of good news! 

Recently I was with some friends around a fire. We were laughing, roasting marshmallows, making smores, and sitting close with blankets because it was so cold outside. There were also hard things being shared regarding health, broken relationships, and needing perseverance. But in that moment there was so much hope. It was a reminder that we weren’t alone, that God was good, and that he was at work on our behalf. That firepit was a beacon of hope that God provides community, answers to prayers, strength for a new day and a savior that loves us in our darkest moments. He’s waiting for us to pull up a seat and connect with him so he can warm us up when we are cold/distant, connect to us when feeling isolated, or lean in when we just need to sit in his presence and remember he’s the maker of the stars, painter of the dawn and also a personal father who loves us so much.

Question: Is there something/someone you have given up on? Stop and talk to God about it! Make sure to end your time talking by also listening. Spend at least one minute in quiet and just being still. 

- Chara Robinson