Where does the longing come from that nothing in this world can satisfy, not even the most carefully prepared holidays? This sermon leads to Isaiah 60, where light comes to a city sunk in darkness, light nobody earned and nobody paid for. Along the way it tells of a New York gang leader whom someone dared to tell that God had a different plan for him. Listen and see why it is only in God’s presence that we are truly at home.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- The Israelites returned from Babylonian exile to a deserted Jerusalem. What might the words of Isaiah 60:1-3, "Arise, shine, for your light has come," have meant to them?
- Isaiah 60 describes nations, kings and former enemies coming to the city with gifts and rebuilding its walls together. What does this picture tell us about the kind of community God creates?
- The wise men looked for the light in Jerusalem but found it in a small house in Bethlehem. Where do you look for fulfillment, and where does Jesus want to meet you?
- The sermon compares Jesus to a beam of light revealing dust and scratches in a dark room. What does God's light reveal in your life, and why can that lead to healing rather than shame?
- Nicky Cruz's story shows that a transformed life is not an end in itself but should point others to God. How can your life draw people to the source of the light today?
- The sermon lists compassion, feeding the hungry, forgiving and loving difficult people as reflections of the new reality. What specific step can you take this week to show someone this light?
