Radiance
The devotions for the coming week are taken from Lutheran Tract Mission’s 2025 Advent devotional, ‘Shine the Light’. Written by Anne Hansen, Lutheran Tract Mission’s Tract Development Officer, the devotions focus on the significance of light in God’s story and plan for the world, from the beginning of Genesis 1, where God created light and the lights in the sky, to the last verse of Revelation, where God is the light reigning forever. The ‘Shine the Light’ Advent devotional is available at www.ltm.org.au/flipbk/advent-2025 and can be downloaded, printed or used as a digital flipbook.
by Anne Hansen
Click here to download your printable verse to carry with you today.
The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes (Psalm 19:8).
Read Psalm 19:1–11
The Sun is the star at the heart of our solar system. The gravity from the Sun holds the solar system together, keeping everything – from the biggest planet we know of in the solar system (Jupiter) to the smallest pieces of debris – in its orbit. The connection and interactions between the Sun and the Earth create the seasons, ocean currents, weather, climate and all life. And … God made this Sun and all the solar system and universe. He created it to provide light and life to the Earth.
The Psalmist David speaks of God’s commands as being radiant. This word usually relates to rays being emitted from the Sun, providing a light that shines and dazzles. The word of God is light to the world that brings life and light to all his people. His commands are clear, pure and enlightening, giving light to our eyes that brings understanding and belief to our hearts. These commands are not just to be followed, but are a source of light that guides us to a life that is pleasing to God.
The Bible verse above from Psalm 19:8 points to the authority of God’s word in the Bible. From the very beginning of creation when God spoke, and it was done, and ‘It was very good’ to God sending his Son for the sake of all humankind, God is the only true authority. God’s word is not only true, but it is right. God’s word has authority because God has authority. God’s way is not only right, but it is the best, as it guides us into the light of truth.
This psalm speaks in picture language to help us understand that everything he does is with us in mind. Take God’s words to your heart, mind and soul and worship the Maker of Heaven and Earth. As we celebrate Advent, we also celebrate God sending his Son to Earth as a baby for our ultimate salvation.
The words of God are a radiant light to guide us!
Creator God, you made the world, and it was perfect. Thank you for your words in the Bible that also bring light to my life. Radiate your words into my heart so that I can serve and please you. Amen.
Anne Hansen has worked as the Lutheran Tract Mission Development Officer for 19 years. She lives in Noosa, Queensland, with her husband, Mark (a pastor), and has three grown children – Jonah, Christian and Emma – and is a new proud mother-in-law to Brooke. Anne enjoys attending Mainly Music, walking, reading, gardening and playing pickleball.
- Click here to read previous devotions.
- We are also posting them on LCA Facebook, making it easy for you to share them with family and friends.
- Sign up to receive Daily Devotion in your inbox every morning. If you’re already doing that, please encourage others to sign up. Click here for the link.
