In the language of darkness and light, there’s a lot of darkness in the world around us. Wars. Terrorism. Threats. Natural disasters of fire, earthquake, flood, famine and drought. I don’t know about you, but I think that if we dwell on those dark circumstances we can easily be subsumed. How easily our ‘normal’ lives can become shadowy, pessimistic, and fearful.
That’s why it’s so important to be encouraged in this simple truth: We are children of light! God has not made us for darkness. Jesus died and rose again. The Light of the world is alive and kicking. Baptised into Him, He has made us to live as children of light in his kingdom of light. He has made us to reflect that light into the world – in the face of darkness. And not just for ourselves in a personal way, but that we continue to encourage each other!
One darkness that sometimes impacts people is fear of judgment. Even Christian people can succumb: have I done enough; am I good enough; will the Lord forgive me and let me live; am I destined for light or darkness? Jesus assures us that we are forgiven – that we are dearly loved. He provides us with the armour we need to live as children of light: Faith, Love and Hope.
So dear people, hold on to these gifts. Shine in the darkness – without fear. Be full of faith, love and hope.