“Darkness,” may be defined as the partial or total absence of light. When light is removed objects are unrecognizable or distorted. The human eye can’t perceive color without light. One can’t judge distance very well when stumbling in the dark of night. Darkness also hides what could easily be recognized in the light; whether that is a rugged pathway, furniture in a room, a curving highway or an abyss that looms ahead. When we choose to walk in darkness trouble usually ensues. It is no wonder Jesus used the metaphor of light to describe Himself and His followers.
John 8:12 English Standard Version (ESV)
12 Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
Early in my ministry I served a church that underwent some severe problems which ended up splitting the congregation. The chairman of deacons and I felt compelled to visit in the homes of many who were on both sides of this particular issue. After many days of heartfelt prayer and visitation, it seemed our efforts were fruitless.
Evelyn and I lived in a staff house across the street from the church, and for over two weeks I hadn’t had time to cut the grass. This particular day I got home late but determined the lawn would be mowed. I finished the front yard, and with the glimmer of light remaining persevered to the back. After a few rounds it seemed inevitable that I would not have enough light to finish.
At this juncture in my life most things felt unsettled and “unfinished.” In my mind not completing the needed lawn maintenance was just one more thing left undone. I prayed: “Lord PLEASE let me finish this one thing. Please give me enough light to complete this single task!” I made a few more rounds with ever encroaching blackness surrounding me. I prayed again for help! … I continued. Then at the moment I almost packed it up, leaving yet another thing in my life woefully incomplete, a flicker from the security light came on. It didn’t ignite in a blaze of brightness, it lazily ….with an almost imperceptible progression gave just enough light to see one step in front of my path…. I continued. The light advanced with incremental improvement toward its full illumination over a period of several minutes, giving just enough light to continue without hopeless abandon to the project. When I finally finished the security light was in full illumination. I could see where I had cut and it actually looked pretty good! “Thank you God!” I understood. God would supply enough light to see the next step. Keep walking. (He said) Don’t give up.
God did provide the light we needed for that very difficult moment in our lives. Maybe you are at the cross roads in your own life. Take heart, God brings light to the darkest moments of our Spiritual journey. Keep walking! Keep trusting!
This year our Christmas music program is entitled: The Light Has Come! It celebrates the birth of the light giver – Jesus Christ! We are His light as well. One way you can share the light is to invite someone to join you for this special event on Sunday, December 2 at 3 or 6 PM.
The Light Has Come! – – Share it!
Keith