Sermon Central
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The Weary World Rejoices
Contributed by Randy Bataanon on Dec 18, 2025 (message contributor)
Summary: As we approach this Christmas season, my beloved country - Philippines, like the world around us, has known weariness, struggle, and darkness. Yet God reminds us that His Light has come, and the weary world can rejoice.
Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ!
As we approach this Christmas season, I feel compelled to write to you with a message of hope and encouragement inspired by Isaiah 9:2:
"The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned."
This verse speaks powerfully to our time and place. Indeed, our beloved Philippines, like the world around us, has known weariness, struggle, and darkness. Yet God reminds us that His Light has come, and the weary world can rejoice.
I. THE WORLD IS WEARY
"The people walking in darkness..." — Isaiah 9:2a
Dear Church, many of our brothers and sisters feel the burden of life’s challenges: financial difficulties, family struggles, work pressures, and personal trials. Like a mother waking early to care for her children while juggling jobs, or a young student facing endless expectations, our people walk wearily each day.
Encouraging Verses:
• Psalm 34:17–18 — “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
• Matthew 11:28–30 — “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
Application: Let us bring our weariness to Jesus, trusting that He sees every burden and offers rest.
Personal Challenge: Identify the areas in your life where you feel tired or overwhelmed and surrender them to God this season.
II. DARKNESS IS REAL
“…living in the land of deep darkness...” — Isaiah 9:2b
Darkness surrounds us in many forms—fear of the future, anxiety, relational challenges, and spiritual uncertainty. Like a young boy struggling in silence with depression, many walk in hidden darkness. Yet acknowledging it is the first step to experiencing God’s Light.
Encouraging Verses:
• Psalm 23:4 — “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
• Romans 8:38–39 — “Neither death nor life… will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Application: Darkness may feel overwhelming, but God’s presence surrounds us. We do not face it alone.
Personal Challenge: Reflect on the areas of hidden fear, doubt, or discouragement in your life, and invite Jesus to shine His Light there.
III. THE LIGHT HAS COME
“…a light has dawned.” — Isaiah 9:2c
Christmas reminds us that God’s Light came into the world as a humble child in Bethlehem. Like a single candle that guides steps in a blackout, Jesus brings hope, direction, and peace to our weary hearts. His arrival transforms weariness into rejoicing.
Encouraging Verses:
• John 1:4–5 — “In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
• Luke 2:10–11 — “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.”
Application: The Light of Christ replaces despair with hope, fear with peace, and confusion with direction. We are called to not only receive this Light but reflect it to others.
Personal Challenge: Ask yourself: How can you let Jesus’ Light shine through your actions, words, and prayers this Christmas? Who in your community needs encouragement and hope from the Light of Christ?
CONCLUSION
Beloved Church, Isaiah 9:2 reminds us:
The world is weary.
Darkness is real.
But the Light has come.
As we celebrate Christmas, let us remember that joy does not come from circumstances, but from the presence of Christ. His Light continues to shine, bringing hope, peace, and encouragement to every weary soul.
Final Challenge:
• Bring your personal burdens to Jesus.
• Walk courageously into the Light, letting Him guide your life.
• Share His Light with others so that the weary in our communities may rejoice this Christmas.
May this season remind us all that even amidst weariness and darkness, the Light of Christ brings joy to the world.
With love and prayer,
Pastor Randy B. Bataanon
