Light and Darkness by Mary Stewart

I’ve been pondering light and darkness lately and scriptures related to it, especially now that we are moving into the fall and winter. When the sun sets before supper it messes with my rhythms. I tend to get down during this change of seasons. Psalm 139: 12 says, “Even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is bright as the day, for darkness is as light with you.” That’s hard to imagine or comprehend.

A little over a month ago I went on a prayer and silence retreat to a place called Pacem in Terris (meaning Peace on Earth). Jesus’ light and peace did shine even in the darkness of night, an answer to my prayers for sleep. As I walked to the bathroom at night, a few steps from the cottage I stayed in, it was so dark that I couldn't see my hand in front of me. Since there was no electricity or outside lamp, I needed a flashlight to light the path. Otherwise, I would most likely trip or fall along the way.  

Even though it was so dark at night and I was alone God calmed my fears. The simple lighting of a candle in the darkness, and flashlight lit on the path reminded me of God’s presence and protection. God’s Word says, “By your words I can see where I’m going; they throw a beam of light on my dark path.” Psalm 119:105 MSG In other words, God shines light in our darkness by his words of truth that bring light in our lives.

As a believer, I know this is true but have found it hard when encountering people lost in darkness. God has allowed me to be in situations lately where I’m staring darkness right in the face, literally through hurting people, and in my own places of brokenness. I feel helpless in what I can do to give hope where it feels hopeless.  

So I ask, how can we throw a beam of light on these dark paths? Let the reflections of light in the leaves, on the water, in the window, or in someone’s eyes remind you of the light of God, and of hope. Share this light through a smile, a word, or a caring gesture. The impact of the light of Jesus may not be seen in this life but there will be eternal benefits. John 1:5 says, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.”  

This light was never extinguished because Jesus conquered death on the cross! This dark symbol of death still brings light and freedom for all to have. So be encouraged in the places that you see and feel darkness, where you feel hopeless to help. Throw a beam of Jesus light on the path of those you meet today!