Read John 1:1-5 and I Peter 2:9-10
It was so dark in that cavern in the middle of all those fourth graders! It was impossible to see my foot on the edge of the path. Where should I take the next step?
Then the guide flipped the switch on his trusty flashlight. A narrow beam of brightness changed the impossible to the possible. We could see to take the next step.
For some, the world seems a bit dark right now, like we have fallen into a pit and cannot climb out. We are counting the days of social distancing and wishing they would end. We are working from home and hoping for a day soon with non-virtual, face to face collaboration with our co-workers. We are wanting this long, extended “spring break with schoolwork” to end so we can wave joyfully as our children board the school bus. We are tired of isolating ourselves from others and long for fellowship with friends and family. We are checking our mailboxes for unemployment checks, small business loans, anything that will replenish our bank accounts and put food on the table. Our resilience is shrinking, and our determination to obey the guidelines is waning. We are wondering what the next step will be and how we will manage to take it and remain free from the infection of this terrible virus.
The light does seem to be dawning. We hear predictions of the virus peaking in the next several days. Phase 2 plans are on the table, ready to implement as soon as the peak occurs and the decline in cases begins.
In the big picture, however, we have been and still are walking in the Light. The Light of the World pierced the darkness of sin and death a long time ago. Even though the world feels dark and depressing, the Light is shining, bringing hope not only to us but to all nations.
Just like that guide in the cavern, we as God’s people have the Light. It is time for us to flip the switch and shine the Light into the darkness of many who are feeling despair and discouragement. We have all we need bring to them this wonderful Light that dispels darkness.
Thank You, Father, for giving us Jesus, the Light of the World. Thank You for shedding Your Light into the darkness of our lives. Help us to shine our lights in the middle of this present darkness so that those who despair will find hope in Jesus. In His Name, Amen.