Walk in the Light
by Alan and Clarice Smith 18 August 2024
READING - John 1 : 4 - 5
The Word was the source of life, and this life brought light to mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has never put it out
Recently I was watching a David Attenborough programme set deep in the jungle. The trees were extremely tall and little light managed to get through the dense foliage. I do not know the name of the beautiful bird that was being filmed, but it's colours were magnificent, with stark patches of yellow, red and blue standing out prominently.
David was explaining that due to the small amount of light that generally got through to the floor of the jungle, the bird had to find a spot where some light did manage to get through the canopy, and then clear a good portion of the ground of all debris, including the tiniest leaf or twig. This then allowed the bird to show himself off in the small amount of light available, without there being anything around him to cause any distraction, whilst he attempted to attract his possible future mate. Even the birds know the value of light!
This brought to my mind the fact that light was God's first gift in creation, but it was rejected by the people he created and the darkness of sin and evil was introduced into the world at an early stage. We remember Stephen, the first Christian martyr, stoned to death for speaking about Jesus as God's chosen Messiah. We know that this state continues.
As we turn on the news we hear of death, evil and sadness. Such stories seem worse than ever. We might recall personal unhappiness or tragedy. Darkness can feel overwhelming - yet darkness does not overcome light. Into the world as it is, full of sadness, evil, fear and despair - God sent Jesus. The life offered by the Word was its light, the light given by God for us to walk in.
The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear. (Psalm 27:1)
Hymn - The Spirit lives to set us free
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Prayer
Heavenly Father, you are indeed our light and salvation. You give purpose, direction and reason to our lives. We want to say thank you for all Your goodness and mercy shown to us each day. We know Your promises will be fulfilled and we ask that You guide and direct our paths according to Your will and to Your honour and glory. In Jesus' name we ask our prayer. Amen