"In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it." — John 1:4-5 NIV
Recently, I woke up in a pitch-dark room. I leaned over in bed and stretched to turn on the bedside lamp, but nothing happened. I got up and headed towards the entrance. Straining to see, I bumped into the wall. My hand fumbled across it as my fingers searched for the light switch. I turned it on, but blackness prevailed. Tentatively, I traced my fingers along the wall as I entered the hall. Running my hand over the plastered surface, I felt its texture beneath my fingertips. I squinted, struggling to see. Finally, I reached a window and peered into the glow of the starry night. Later, the power returned, and my house was bathed in light. The relief I felt was beyond words.
Moving about in the shadows was scary. Dangers seemed to lurk as if I were in strange surroundings instead of my cozy home. A veil of black covered my eyes, obstructing my vision. The brief incident gave me a glimpse of being physically unable to see.
Blindness can be spiritual rather than physical. It may occur without warning and catch us off guard. Even in familiar territory, we might find it hard to proceed. Evil on earth tries to render us sightless, so we fumble, unsure how to continue through the darkness into the marvelous light God promises. Light and sight are wonderful God-given gifts. When light streams in, it uncovers previously hidden perils.
The Bible recurringly discusses light and sight versus darkness and blindness. In Luke 10:23, Jesus said to his disciples,“…Blessed are the eyes that see what you see” (NIV). Because of their relationship with Jesus, the disciples could perceive and receive spiritual sight. When followers of Christ allow Him to guide them, they can walk through dark times because of God’s marvelous light.
Sin lurks in the shadows, but when we turn to seek God, His light brings clarity and reveals godly wisdom. Darkness cannot escape the light, and soon, gloomy shadows of uncertainty evaporate as light restores security. God’s Word shines a light on wickedness and unveils the unseen spiritual realm. As we study the Word, the Holy Spirit illuminates our understanding and reminds us that Jesus is––the light of the world.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for physical and spiritual sight. I will not fear the night because You walk with me and lead me through unknown valleys. You are my strength and guiding light in every trial, illuminating the path ahead. I hope that everyone, with open eyes, comes to Your marvelous light. My continual prayer is, “Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law” (Psalms 119:18, NIV).
Your turn: In what dark moments have you observed God’s light shine in your life? What did this look like? Are there Bible verses you can share that remind you of God’s light?
Excellent points!