The Light of the World

I am the light of the world. Jesus. John 8:12

Jesus uttered these words shortly after the feast of tabernacles, a Jewish high holy day commemorating Israel’s dwelling in tents at Kadesh-Barnea. During tabernacles, oil lamps were set up all over the city. The Mishnah suggests that the lights radiated throughout the entirety of Jerusalem. The holy hill was lit up for all to see and remember.

I am the light of the world. Jesus was sending a message. Tabernacles was his backdrop, but he was the focus. He was the light of the world. Oil lamps couldn’t light up a covenant people like he could. Oil lamps couldn’t light up a covenant people like he would.

John had earlier penned, “The true light, which enlightens everyone,  was coming into the world” (John 1:9). Jesus enlightens. Jesus illuminates. His presence overcomes darkness, for he is the light of the world.