1 John 1:5-7
This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.
A few years ago, my family traveled west to Yellowstone and the Black Hills, where we toured Wind Cave. After descending deep under the earth, the park ranger had our group gather in a wide passage, and he turned off the lights. The cave, which had been dimly illuminated by electric bulbs fastened along the walls, became completely dark, a total blackness that we rarely experience in our modern world. Even though we knew the ranger would soon switch the lights back on, those few moments were a little scary. Everyone held their breath. When the lights were restored, we all exhaled an audible sigh of relief, followed by a few laughs. Darkness can be frightening and disorientating. Even a small glimmer of light offers relief, like the first rays of dawn after a long night.
Scripture often compares God to light. We remember that it was God who created light, speaking it into existence at the beginning of Creation. John tells us that God is light, and we are invited to walk in the comforting light of his presence through Jesus. At the same time, we know darkness also remains, not in God but in the world around us. Sometimes, we choose to walk in the dark, seeking to hide or escape from God’s pure light as we indulge in sin. Of course, God sees through the dark, aware of all we think and say and do.
How much better it is to walk in the light of God’s truth and righteousness. Scripture shines light on the path God knows is best for us, guiding us through troubles and temptations. The Holy Spirit also illuminates the way forward, directing us with God’s wisdom as we pray and listen to his reassuring voice of comfort and counsel. In a similar way, we see God’s light reflecting off other believers, as they walk in faith and obedience, encouraging us to avoid the darkness and to stay true to the path God sets before us. The fellowship of believers keeps us focused on the light where we can grow closer to Jesus and find peace in his glorious presence. What a blessing it is to walk in God’s light!Thank You, Father, for shining Your light into my heart. Keep me from wandering into darkness. Surround me with those who know the light of Your glory and truth, and help me to reflect Your light to others, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
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Pastor Mike Mirakian
