Sunday, October 9, 2011

Foundations October 10, 2011

The Law in 90 Days: Numbers 5-6
SCRIPTURE READING

John 8:12 (ESV); Whoever follows Me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.

Light and darkness is a common theme in the gospel of John. John said of Jesus, “In Him was
life, and that life was the light of men.” (1:4) Jesus said to Nicodemus, “Light has come into the
world but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who
does evil hates the light and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed.”
(3:19-20)
Jesus uses such a practical thing – light and darkness – to show us the foolishness of our
ways. Who would ever want to live in utter darkness, when a lamp is available? Jesus likens
this strangeness to living in sin. People hide their sin, burying it deep in the darkness for fear of
being found out, and eventually the darkness becomes a cloak of safety – a warm place where
our sins can live devoid of confrontation. Denial enables us to remain in the dark without the
pain of remembrance. Blame allows us to live unhindered by regret. But beneath it all is a fear
of what would happen if the truth was revealed, the sin exposed.
Light can be blinding, especially after one has dwelt in darkness, but the aftermath is good.
The light of Christ is a healing light. Yes, it forces us to admit our sin, but because Christ is the
Source of the light, the revelation is gentle and brings freedom from all that the darkness has
kept hidden.

PRAYER and MEDITATION
1. How have you experienced the light of Christ in your life? Can you share your story with
someone today?
2. What lurks in the darkness of your heart? Ask the Holy Spirit to show you what keeps you
in darkness. Are you willing to allow the light of Christ to reveal the truth? Is it time to deal
with the issue? Can you share it with a trusted friend or leader today?
3. Ask God how you can walk in the light. How can your relationship with Jesus affect you in
such a way that you live victoriously in the light? Meditate on John 8:12 and 3:19-20.