I do not like being in the dark. Ever.
Not in the middle of the night when I wake up unexpectedly—that’s what nightlights are for.
Not outside in the darkness—that’s what flashlights are for.
Not when the power goes out—that’s what candles are for.
Not when my life is unclear and I can’t make sense out of anything. That’s why Jesus came down to us.
Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in the darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12 NIV).
There are dark places in my life right now, situations where I do not know the outcome or how God will work in and through that season. In those places, I am clinging to the Light, because Jesus promises that if I follow Him, His light will shine into those dark valleys.
The Greek word follow consists of several smaller Greek words: “together; a way; to move quickly and straight.”
When places in my life are dark, I must make the decision to go with Christ—His way, not mine. I must practice first-time obedience.
When His light shines on an area of my life that needs changing, I must respond promptly. Before He even points me in a direction, I must already decide that I will say yes and obey Him.
Are you experiencing darkness this Christmas?
Draw close to the Light of the world. Find a quiet place to read His Word. Ask Him to shine His light into your heart and through your life.
Be ready to respond quickly.
Remember, you are never alone in the dark. The enemy may whisper to you, “No one understands,” or, “Nothing will ever change.” Respond with truth: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5).
Every year, to celebrate the beginning of the Christmas season, my husband and I have a tree lighting ceremony. We began the tradition when our children were little but have carried it on even as empty nesters.
John strings the lights on the tree, we hang all the ornaments, and then we turn off all the lights in the entire house. It is very dark.
However, I don’t mind this darkness. My husband is with me, and I know what is about to happen.
The Christmas tree lights shine as John flips the switch, and we stand in awe of the beauty they bring to the once darkened room.
There would be no appreciation of the lights if there were no darkness.
Friend, whatever darkness seems to be flooding your life this season, choose this day to follow Jesus, the Light who overcomes the darkness.
Stand in awe of God’s gift: the Light of the world!