The Light of Christ

            The Bible uses many different symbols in order to teach spiritual truths.  Numbers, colors, animals, etc. all depict an attitude or natural event, or type of catastrophe.  God inspires these words and phrases in order to impress an unforgettable impression upon the reader’s mind.

            One special use of imagery is the contrast between light and darkness.  Light, being the first thing God spoke into existence, depicts righteousness and godliness.  As light enables us to see the obstacles in our way so as to avoid them, following God’s decrees of holiness guide us so that we do not stumble and fall into sin (see Psalm 119:105).  Light is also an essential element needed by living things for healthy growth.  Jesus and God’s Word are symbolized as light because our souls need them in order to mature spiritually.  And light brings comfort from our fears because we are able to see things as they really are – there’s nothing to fear when we are objects of God’s love.

            Darkness, on the other hand, depicts evil, deceit, deception and loneliness.  Without light, it is difficult to maneuver through life without tripping over the temptations that are in our path.  We are deprived of the energy (or information) needed to succeed because darkness hides the true path.  And darkness is used to conceal traps, immorality, ignorance and all kinds of evil.  Lives are full of envy, fear and violence because so many spend too much time in darkness.

            Jesus came to bring enlightenment, illumination, brightness and radiance to our lives.  He was (and still is) the embodiment of everything symbolized by the concept of light.  This is why some of His greatest works and miracles involved restoring sight to the blind.  He came from heaven to earth to show us the way to the Father; to remove our spiritual darkness and fill us with His wonderful light.  We no longer have to guess and feel our way through life.  All that’s required is to follow His glory (light) through all of the dangers, toils, temptations and fears we face.  He came to brighten the pathway into Heaven.

       Don’t be like the religious leaders who refused to “see” Jesus for who He truly was.  Their minds were darkened with selfish ambition, greed, jealousy, and preconceived notions.  The same will happen today if we get distracted from living for Him and begin serving ourselves. 

       Come into the Light of Christ.  “See” the wonderful blessings God has in store for you.

Doug