Light

Our home backs up to a nice wooded area, and our property ends at a little stream. On the other side of the stream are some more woods and other homes. During the spring and summer time, there is no way to see these distant neighbors. However, when the leaves fall from the trees in the autumn, you can glimpse the other homes. One of our far away neighbors just put up their outdoor Christmas lights, and amidst the obstruction of trees they look absolutely beautiful. For the last couple weeks, my heart has been so burdened. At night, when all is quiet the load just sinks deep within my soul, and I find myself just plain weary as I prepare for bed. Then, I see the lights. Our bedroom has three giant windows that overlook the woods, and peeking through those trees my not-so-near neighbor's lights shine like a beacon of hope. I have found such comfort gazing at them.

Sometimes, as believers, our Light seems to be at a distance. Sometimes our Light is obstructed by things around us. Sometimes our Light seems so dim our eyes squint to just get a glimpse. But rest assured, our Light is always there. Always shining. Always present.

You see, when our focus shifts from Jesus, The Light of the World, to the darkness all around the feeling can be absolutely overwhelming. But Jesus gives us an amazing promise in John 8:12, "Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

Follow Jesus.

Follow Him through fire.

Follow Him through the unknown.

Follow Him when it is not popular.

Follow Him through persecution.

Follow Him and have light!

Those distant Christmas lights, acres away from my bedroom windows, provide a wonderful feeling of comfort before I close my eyes. They are there. They are shining. They are a beacon of hope. Just like my Jesus.