But you, brothers and sisters, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief. You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness.
The fireworks lit up the sky.
Tim and I had our first date on July 4, 1992. Twenty-nine years later, on July 4, 2021, we drove home from visiting my mom. As we rode along state route 68, we witnessed fireworks as they flared in the sky. The magnificent burst of color and light reminded us of our first date. As we reminisced, I thanked God for my husband and the years we’ve spent together.
The dazzling display of light brought another thought to
mind. As a believer in Jesus, I need to be a light in the darkness. I’ve
watched fireworks in different venues, and one thing I’ve noticed—The
darker the night, the more brilliant the light.
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| photo from pixaby |
Our world suffers from spiritual darkness. But Jesus light
shines through the dark. His hope illuminates every shadow, dismal valley, and blackest
night.
Jesus’ light shines grace and forgiveness on a fallen world.
Paul writes to the Thessalonian church “brothers and sisters, about times and
dates we do not need to write to you, for you know very well that the
day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night.” He urges them to be
a light to the world as they wait for Jesus.
We don’t know the day or hour of Jesus’ return to earth, but
as followers of him we are called to shine his light. Be kind, love others,
forgive, share joy, be generous, live in peace, be gentle, show Jesus’ grace—be
his light.
Jesus shined his light on my life. He loves the unlovely, illuminates
our path, and seeks to restore light in the lives of everyone. Jesus’ way
offers hope as the brightest light in the darkest night.
If darkness swallows you, seek Jesus. If you have faith in
Jesus be his light.