One example from the Spanish language is the phrase “dar a luz” – a common way to say “to give birth.” The literal translation means “to give light,” an incredibly beautiful and powerful way to capture the act of bringing life into the world. In John 1:9, it says “The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” But how would that light come? Through a young girl named Mary, the instrument God chose to give birth to not only a life but the Light of the World – to not only a son but the Savior. What a blessing but also what a responsibility, to give light to a world often consumed by darkness.

As I have traveled the world over the last year from Lebanon to Nigeria, I have seen women who are giving light to everyone in their homes and beyond in their churches, communities, and countries. Women who are shining the light of faith even when persecuted. Women who are shining the light of hope even in the face of poverty. Women who are shining the light of peace even in the midst of war. Their witness is inspiring – rooted in an unwavering belief that darkness did not win during the Roman regime centuries ago, and it will not win today. We can praise God this Christmas that darkness has a destiny of defeat. As John 1:5 says, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” That is a life-changing, light-shining truth in any language.

On behalf of our multicultural, multilingual BWA Women family, a sisterhood spanning more than 150 countries and territories, Merry Christmas! May the Light of Christ fill your heart and home in this season and throughout the year ahead so that you may shine for his glory and the good of all you