by Victoria Heinecke

We have the courage to face life in the light of Christ Jesus.

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

“In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
John 1:4-5 English Standard Version

The absence of light can be both beautiful and unnerving. We marvel at the night sky, filled with countless stars. Fireworks appear to be more dramatic at night. Sometimes a full moon is so bright we can read under its light.

As long as there’s the counterpoint of light against the night, we generally experience less fear.

Conversely, we might tremble when we see an unlit alley – unable to see through the dark, we are afraid we’ll be startled by an unexpected person or sight. Caves and ocean depths, where light cannot penetrate on its own, are also scary.

In Scripture, the darkness is usually synonymous with the realm of Satan. The abyss where he dwells is so fearful that a Legion of demons didn’t want to return once they’d left (Luke 8:26-33). Even today, people with depression will sometimes describe their low days as a figurative descent into darkness.

In the beginning, there was nothing but a void. Then God spoke.

“And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. And God saw that the light was good.”
Genesis 1:3-4a English Standard Version

The light is, indeed, good. Even the smallest flicker of light can split the darkness and offer a way through a desperate situation.

Have courage! The Lord is with you: he is at your side and you are within his embrace. No matter what circumstances you encounter, trust him to guide you through your darkest days.

“Jesus said to them, “Walk while you have the light, lest darkness overtake you. The one who walks in the darkness does not know where he is going. While you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light.””
John 8:35-36 English Standard Version

If you have your light, be sure to share it. There are many who are lost in the dark.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado