This time of year our days are a picture of contrast; one day glorious sunshine whilst the next is overcast and drab. We can also mirror such darkness and light within our minds and hearts. Most religions share such experiences in their search for truth and fulfilment. For many there is a deep darkness, the darkness of not knowing, and there are light flashes in which the we can know the unknowable to be very close.
Through the centuries Christian teaching has emphasised the notion of darkness and light and its relationship to the time and space that each disciple finds themselves. There will be moments of beauty or excitement when light is more readily perceived. At other times, when facing calamity, rejection or the depth of depression the looming darkness seems almost palpable.
There is a wonderful assurance found in Psalm 139:12 “even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.” Many find themselves living in a hinterland betwixt light and darkness where the sunlight of each day is overshadowed by clouds of darkness or within the shadows of life, the sun always seems to be on the other side of the street.
But by faith there is light at the end of the spiritual tunnel where Isaiah writes ‘I am the Lord; I have called you in righteousness; I will take you by the hand and keep you; “I will give you as a covenant for the people, a light for the nations.” Just one thought; it is even possible to reflect light in a dark space if we are facing the source of that light.
Prayer
God, with you there is no darkness. Your character has no shadows, and you are pure and good. Yet in our broken world, we see so much darkness around us. Pain, sickness, and disease are in our community and in many of our homes.
Bring your light and restoring presence to the dark places in our lives. Bring your hope to hearts that feel defeated. Bring your love and compassion to those in pain.
Give us faith to say with the psalmist, “ Lord, you light my lamp; my God illuminates my darkness."May your light of hope shine in the darkness for families today. Show us glimpses of your presence with us and the comfort you bring.
In the busyness of today, help us to take a moment to be still and sit with you. To slow down, breathe deeply, and release our burdens to your strong hand. You are trustworthy, good, and true, and we thank you for caring for us so deeply and beautifully. Open our eyes to see you at work today. Give us your light.
In Jesus name, Amen.
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