Unveiling the True Light: Beyond Myths and Fairy Tales

In the gentle glow of the Christmas season, we find ourselves enveloped in the warmth of tradition and the promise of new beginnings. As we transition from the joy of Christmas to the solemnity of the pre-Lenten and Passion seasons, we are reminded of the divine journey that culminates in the resurrection—a testament to the undying nature of life. Yet, amidst the celebration, a question lingers: Is the story of Jesus Christ merely a myth, or is it the cornerstone of our faith?

The Apostle Peter's Testimony: Eyewitness to Majesty

The Apostle Peter, in his epistle, confronts the skepticism head-on. He declares, "For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty." (2 Peter 1:16). Peter's words are not those of a man recounting a tale heard from others but of one who stood in the presence of the divine. He recalls the transfiguration of Jesus, where he, along with James and John, witnessed a glimpse of Christ's glory—a preview of His end-time appearance.

This experience was not a mere story but a profound encounter with the divine. Peter heard the voice of God proclaiming, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased,” (2 Peter 1:17). This affirmation from the heavens solidifies the reality of Jesus' divine nature, challenging the notion that the Bible is just another collection of stories.

The Battle Against Myths: From Enlightenment to Today

The skepticism Peter faced in his time echoes through the ages, particularly gaining momentum during the Enlightenment. This period marked a shift in how the Bible was perceived, gradually being dismantled as the Word of God and reduced to a collection of beautiful but ultimately human stories. The rise of "liberal theology" within the church further diluted the biblical truths, presenting them as no more significant than fairy tales.

Yet, the Bible's stories are not mere fiction. They illuminate the depths of human experience—hatred, conflict, struggle, love, and reconciliation. While these narratives convey truths about life, they are more than moral lessons; they are the narrative of God's interaction with humanity, a narrative that Peter insists is grounded in reality, not myth.

The Prophetic Word: A Light in the Darkness

Peter's message does not end with his personal testimony. He points us to the "prophetic word," which he describes as "a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts" (2 Peter 1:19). This prophetic word is the Bible itself, the one true story that conveys the greatness and glory of the Lord. It is not a collection of myths but a beacon of truth that offers comfort, strength, joy, peace, and the assurance of salvation.

Our faith, Peter reminds us, is not built on legends or our fluctuating emotions but on the objective fact of God's appearance in the world. For believers, the morning star—the symbol of Christ—has risen in their hearts, signaling the dawn of a new day and the fulfillment of what began at Christmas.

From Candle to Light: Igniting the Fire of Faith

In our congregations, many are baptized and confirmed, and worship services are held regularly. Yet, what often remains missing is the fire that transforms a candle into a light. Jesus Himself commands, "You are the light of the world. Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven" (Matthew 5).

To be a light, we must not only carry the Word of God within us but also let it shine through us. We must bear witness to the glory of the Lord, affirming that we do not follow cleverly devised fables but the true Word of God. The Bible is not just a storybook; it is the foundation of our faith, the light that guides us through the darkness of doubt and skepticism.

Embracing the True Light of Christmas

As we move forward from the Christmas season, let us hold fast to the truth that the Bible is not a myth but a testament to the divine glory that entered the world. Let us be more than candles—let us be lights, illuminating the path for others and glorifying our Father in heaven.

In this journey toward Easter, let us remember that the divine glory that began at Christmas reaches its climax in the resurrection. Life cannot be defeated, and our faith is rooted in the reality of God's presence among us. Let us share this truth, not as a mere story, but as the living Word that transforms and enlightens.

May the morning star rise in our hearts, guiding us toward the coming time and the fulfillment of God's promise. Let us be the light of the world, shining brightly with the truth of the Bible.

Amen.

Sermon held on 01/31/2021