The Darkness Cannot Overwhelm the Light
In our little neighborhood in Colorado Springs, every home has a lamp post in the front. No matter how dark it gets at night, the light shines in the darkness. It’s a symbol of safety and home.
This past week has felt dark for many. Hurricane Helene devastated the South. Places like Asheville, North Carolina have been completely decimated. Other places in Georgia and Florida look like a war zone. People have lost loved ones, homes, and businesses. The trauma has felt overwhelming.
In addition, we watched on the news as Iran attacked Israel. Meanwhile, political polarization tears our own country apart.
In the midst of all the darkness, it’s easy to lose hope and to feel overwhelmed by the darkness of this present age. Here’s what we must remember, as the Apostle John wrote so eloquently, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot overcome it” (John 1:5). Did you catch that? The darkness cannot overwhelm the light of Jesus Christ.
John wrote those words in reference to Jesus who stated, “I Am the light of the world” (John 9:5). The prophet Isaiah spoke about Jesus long before He came saying, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you” (Isaiah 60:1).
You might be in a season of darkness right now. Perhaps it’s the darkness of depression, or health issues, or deep grief. May I encourage you? Jesus comes and brings His light, even when life feels dark.
The darkness of this world cannot snuff out the light of Christ. Jesus is, and always will be, victorious. The light always overpowers the dark. You may look at world events or the culture that surrounds us and feel like the darkness is overwhelming. However, you can rest assured. The darkness will not overpower the light that Jesus Christ brings. Lift up your gaze and look to Him, the eternal light.
You can bring the light of the indwelling Christ to others. We are seeing this as many such as Samaritan’s Purse, Hearts and Hands, and many churches and believers are bringing water and food to the regions most devastated by the hurricane. People are tangible witnesses to the light of Christ. When you’re struggling with a sense of darkness, reach out and encourage someone else. Get involved.
Don’t give fear a foothold. The events of the last week can stir up fear in us. When you feel fear rising, turn your heart to praise. Begin praising Jesus that He is the Light of the World. He promises to never leave you nor forsake you (Hebrews 13:5). Nothing can separate you from His love (Romans 8:36). He promises that even in the darkest valleys of life, His presence will be with you (Psalm 23:4). Trust that His light will shine the way for you to move forward.
Lord Jesus, I praise You that You are the light of the world. At times, Lord, I confess I am overwhelmed by how dark life feels. Thank You that You promise the light will overcome the darkness. I can rest in that truth.
For more on Jesus as the Light of the World, check out Who Do You Say That I Am? I wrote this Bible study several years ago, but it looks in depth at the “I Am” statements of Jesus. I know it will strengthen your faith.
If you want to deepen your relationships, purchase a copy of Cultivating Deeper Connections in a Lonely World. Gather a few friends and do the study together!
This week on the Connected Mom Podcast our guest is Jennifer Slattery and we’re talking about moving beyond fear in motherhood.
