My Light Source In The Darkness
by Becki Marshall

Jesus spoke to the people, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

(John 8:12)

I know what it is to walk in darkness – especially during the winter months of shortened daylight hours.  Since early childhood my eyesight has gradually diminished due to a genetic disorder called Retinitis pigmentosa (RP). This condition sometimes referred to as night blindness causes the weakening and loss of light sensitivity cells in the retina, resulting in partial or total blindness. In my case I have about 20% vision in my left eye but none in my right eye.  Without a good flashlight or a hand to hold, a walk in the dark would leave me disoriented, discouraged, and in danger.  I need a dependable light source every day, night, and season of the year.

Spiritually, a terrible darkness has affected the entire human race.  Because of sin everyone experiences confusion and fear. But God...in His mercy has seen our distress and lostness.  He has revealed Himself as a great light in the person of Jesus Christ.  The Apostle John put it this way: “The true light has come into the world – and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:35)  He is our dependable source of pure light wherever we go in this world.

Think about the relationship between Physical Light and Spiritual Insight:

With a good light...

  • Our path is clear.
  • Faces are recognized.
  • Stumbling is avoided.
  • Fear is diminished.
  • Walking is accomplished.

Likewise when we “...walk in the light as He is in the light...” (1 John 1:7)

  • God’s Word is illuminated.
  • Fellowship with God and others increases.
  • Sin is uncovered for cleansing.
  • We are free to follow Jesus anywhere.

The Christian life is not so much about rule keeping as it is direction. Knowing Jesus and following Him as your reliable source of light, wisdom and truth keeps you moving forward – in the right direction.  Only Jesus, the Light of the World, offers you a hand to hold, the guidance of His Word, and a glorious destination, where...  “one Day the night will be no more and we will need no light or lamp or sun, for the LORD God will be our light forever and ever.” (Revelation 21:5)

No matter what kind of confusion or difficulty you are facing in this season, God knows and sees all your worries and fears.  He desires to be the Light of your life and the Lord of your heart.  You can trust Him...even in the darkness.

I Know You Jesus

Jesus it’s you ...you from the start
Lord of earth and heaven, Lord of my heart
Though I've known darkness
Though I've had doubts
Though we move in shadows
Though we know in part
Though for now, we're tasting
Though no eye has seen
Though for now, we're waiting in the in-between
I know You, Jesus
Lord of my heart

– Lyrics by Eric Marshall, Young Oceans

 

COMMON THREADS winter 2022