How do most of us define the word “darkness”? We often say that darkness is the absence of light. That is true as far as the human eye can discern it. For many years scientists thought that the dark parts of the universe, the “black holes,” were empty spaces devoid of matter, especially matter like stars, which emit light. However, it turns out that “darkness” is actually “dark energy” or “dark matter.”

At Christmas, we celebrate because Jesus came into the world to rescue people from darkness. He knew that “darkness” is a real spiritual force that can be felt. The darkness that people in unreached villages experience is tangible and frightening. Darkness comes in the form of addictions, sexual abuse, domestic abuse and being enslaved to local gods, spirits and customs that keep them in paralyzing fear.

Jesus is the Light! When the Light of Jesus comes into the village, everything changes. His Presence dispels darkness and drives out fear. The light of the Gospel transforms people and sets them free from sin and darkness. The Light of Jesus continues to shine blessing and restoration into hearts and families in the village.

How does the Light of Jesus come to villages that still remain in darkness today because they have never heard? The answer is simple but sobering. Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.” Matthew 5:14 (NIV) The followers of Jesus are now the ones who must take His Light to villages that have not heard.

Each of us has a part to play in delivering people from darkness by being a light to those around us. Each of us has a responsibility to send someone into unreached villages to take the light and be the light of Jesus. Thank you for partnering with Reach A Village to shine the Light of Christ and dispel darkness from lives in villages around the world!

Spreading the Light Together,

Robert Craft

Founder and President