Part of my daily routine involves getting up very early to take the family dog for a walk.

At this time of year it’s usually dark when I set out but my path home is illuminated by the rising sun and its beckoning of a new day full of promise, opportunity and new beginnings.

It is thoughts such as these that lie behind the words of Zechariah’s Song in Luke’s Gospel: ‘The sun will rise over us from heaven, to shine on those sitting in darkness and the shadow of death; to guide our feet into the way of peace.’ (Luke 1:78b-79).

Zachariah’s Song reminds Christians throughout the season of Advent of the coming light of Christ, who lights up the dark corners of the world.

It captures something of the wonder, joy and hope associated with the birth of Jesus. He is seen as the rising sun that illuminates the way along the path of peace.

Our world may seem a dark and hopeless place at times but the message Advent brings is that hope and freedom can be found in Jesus, the light of the world.

I’m often inspired by everything that light symbolises – life, growth, freedom, goodness and peace. These universal qualities may shine out from any one of us to help illuminate the path of peace.

So, however much dark despair there may be around, the light of God’s peace and love can still shine today through us. That light of hope has never been extinguished – and, I pray, it never will be.

The Rev Bryan Yardy

Settle Methodist Circuit