Out of the darkness, into His marvelous light...

The gospel of John tells us that Jesus came as the Source of light to lift humanity out of darkness. “I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness.” (John 12:46).

“In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men.” (John 1:4)

We do not need to depend on the world to lift us. We do not need to depend on promotions to lift us. We do not need to rely on our status or the things we have to elevate us. If you are a child of God, you are already a part of the Holy City, the New Jerusalem, that is going to descend out of Heaven from God. This city does not need or rely on the sun or the moon for lighting, for the Glory of God will illuminate it, and it will stand brighter than any light before it. As children of God, we are illuminated where we stand, and we are hated for it. Persecuted by those jealous of what we have found. “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” (Matthew 5:14)

Lord, surrounded by filth, and distractions, and darkness, I ask that you embolden me to stand tall and shine forth with your Spirit. That fear would not hold me, that timidity would not take me captive, but that through your Grace, and through your compassion for those in the darkness, I can be your light to lead them out. Amen.