The Light of the World

I am the light of the world: he that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. — John 8:12 KJV

A few years ago our family lived in Norway for the month of June. Our most vivid memory is the wondrous evening light. Until I experienced it, I couldn’t imagine the effect of living where the sun never sets. It’s difficult to describe the energy and sense of well-being that constant sunlight imparts.

No words can adequately depict the light of our Savior. God’s light is incomprehensible.

After talking with God, Moses’s face shone so brightly he had to cover it with a veil so the people would be able to look at him. Christ comes to dispel my darkness, my ultimate blindness: ignorance of God’s love and estrangement from my Creator.

On weekday mornings from September to May, I go to the kitchen and plug in a full-spectrum light box on the kitchen counter. Absorbing the brightness, I fill the coffeemaker, make breakfast, and pack lunches. This morning dose of light alleviates the seasonal depression I battle each winter. One morning recently, we all overslept, so my son grabbed a protein bar and we raced off to school; no time for the light box.

Once back home, as I went to my prayer corner, I brought the light box with me. Turning it on, I marveled at the beauty of the light illumining the cross on the wall. Then I knew: This time set apart for God to pray and read Scripture is my true light box, the way for His light to fill my soul. His light is greater than the darkness of winter, of lethargy or sadness or all my human foibles.

O Christ, the true light Who enlightens and sanctifies us, let the light of Your countenance be impressed upon us, that in it we may see Your unapproachable light. — Mary Brown

Digging Deeper: John 1:4-5; 1 John 1:5

Excerpted with permission from Devotions for Advent, copyright Guideposts.

* * *

Your Turn

God’s light is available to you every hour of the day, every day of the year, every year of your life. With Jesus we never have to walk in darkness. If you’re battling depression today, settle down with God’s Word and soak up His light! Come share your thoughts with us on our blog. We want to hear from you! ~ Devotionals Daily