The Light Still Shines
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it. (John 1:5)
A shadow requires light. Have you ever noticed that shadows can still be seen even during the darkest nights? That is because there is always a source of light somewhere – whether it is the moon, stars, or street lights. Just like the night, we can also be faced with dark times and feel like all hope is lost, yet we can take comfort in knowing that God is our source of light. No matter how dark a situation may seem, God promises that His light is always present because His light can never be extinguished.
Light and darkness are significant themes in the Gospel of John. Jesus is called the "Light of the World," and He shines His light even in our darkest places. In John 8:12, we are reminded that anyone who follows Jesus will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life directing their path. Similarly, those who follow Jesus are also described as lights in this world, as they share God's love and grace with those in spiritual darkness.
Just as Jesus is the light of the world, He miraculously calls us to join Him as beacons of hope to those around us. In Matthew 5:16, Jesus said, "Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven." When life seems overwhelming, it can be easy to forget that God's light is still present in the darkness. Even though we may not be able to fix all the brokenness around us, we can be shining lights amid unexpected trials. Circumstances may be difficult, but we can fan the flame of hope in the hearts of those who feel left in darkness.
The classic book, Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, powerfully illustrates how our lives can be a source of light, "...when we turn toward the Sun of Righteousness, when we come in touch with Christ, the whole soul is aglow with the brightness of the divine presence. Christ's followers are to be more than a light in the midst of men. They are the light of the world." What an incredible thought and privilege to know that flawed people can also be a conduit of light in a fallen world.
Shadows make us naturally think of darkness, but what if we saw shadows as a reminder pointing us to the True Light? What if the shadow is simply a sign that there is a light somewhere, no matter how dark things may have become? Today, we can have courage in knowing that Jesus is still the light of the world, and by His grace, we can be as well.
REFLECTION
What does being reminded of Jesus as the "Light of the World" mean to you personally?
In what ways have you seen God's light in dark times?
When life feels overwhelming to those around you, how can you fan the flame of hope?
