When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’
John 8:12, NIV*
Jesus’ light before us,
Jesus’ light behind us,
Jesus’ light above us,
Jesus’ light beneath us,
Jesus’ light beside us,
Jesus’ light in us.
The light of life in us,
The light of the world in us.
The way may get dark, and it probably will, but this promise tells me that if I’m walking with Jesus, trusting and obeying Him, I won’t become “darkened in my understanding” and I won’t bang into things or stray off-course.
This is one of those promises I’ve known and trusted, but have always heard it in its future implications: “will never… will have”.
Today I’m challenged to hear it in its three-fold sense. As we’ve followed Jesus, we have been kept from walking in darkness and we have received the light of life.
In this moment, we are not walking in darkness, and we have the light of life.
And yes, as we continue with Him, we will never walk in darkness and we will continue to have the light of life.
Today that feels reassuring to me. This isn’t something I have to wait for, or persevere for. It’s here and now, surrounding me, and I only need to rest in Jesus and keep walking with Him.
It’s practicing the presence of Christ. Following Him moment by moment.
Father, I pray in confidence, because of who You are and because of the promises You’ve made. Make me mindful of Your presence throughout the day, not just when I stop to read Your Word or to pray. Let me appreciate Your company on this journey, let me remember to follow closely so I’ll stay in the light and reflect it to those around me.
∞
This week’s song is “Great Light of the World,” by Bebo Norman. I’d forgotten how much I love this song.
*New International Version (NIV) Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Thanks again, Janet. This post gave me a refreshing beginning to my day.
Right on, Janet!….. You have said it so well….. We can all rest in His light because His word is so sure — and His love and wisdom are proven….. No matter what sort of challenge we are asked to face, Jesus will light our way, so that we can grow in faith, hope and love….. We know God works all things for the good of those who love Him, and He is teaching us to rest in Him.
Ginny and Margaret,
Thanks for stopping by to read! Everyone’s so busy. I’m so glad we can be in His light.
The Lord bless and refresh you both!