Promises, promises

Another well worn teaching of Jesus that needs to be renewed in the disciples heart on mine is John 8:12 I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.

On the first day of creation, God flooded the heavens and the earth with divine radiance by uttering the mighty words: “Let there be light”. No matter how dark things may seem, I remind myself that darkness can never overpower light.

This title, Light of the World, is one of the most well-known names for Christ. It’s an image associated with knowledge, truth, righteousness, hope, and life. As Isaiah prophesied, “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned”

It has been said that “darkness is the absence of light.” Throughout Scripture, darkness and light are set apart as opposing forces—with darkness representing the forces of sin and evil, and light representing the love, righteousness, and faithfulness of God, revealed ultimately in Jesus Christ.

Think of some distinctive characteristics of light:

Light is silent. No noise, no big splash, no banners—light simply shines. It's like a single lighthouse along a dark, rugged shoreline. All it does is shine.

Light gives direction. No words, no sermon. Jesus says that others "see" a Christian's actions; He says nothing about nonbelievers "hearing" what a believer says.

Light attracts attention. You don't have to ask people to look at you when you turn on a light in a dark room. It happens automatically.

In order for the light of Christ to reach some dark corners of our world it will require us to reflect the light of Christ for in Matthews gospel Jesus also said, “you are the light of the world!”

We pray in the words of St Benedict: "O gracious and Holy Father, give us wisdom to perceive you, diligence to seek you, patience to wait for you, eyes to behold you, a heart to meditate upon you, and a life to proclaim you; through the power of the Spirit of Jesus Christ our Lord.”