In the United States the months of June through November are hurricane season. Those that live in hurricane-prone areas know all too well the power and fury a strong storm can impose. Many are also likely to have experienced an evening power outage at the hand of a storm. Steeped in darkness, you begin groping around through cluttered kitchen drawers to find the handy flashlight and candles. In the pitch black darkness any light, no matter how small, will make a big difference in helping you find your way.
Now, imagine not being in the relative safety of your own home but out at sea in the midst of a storm. You are desperately trying to find your way to shore but the intense waves are tossing you wildly in a disorienting fashion as the rain crashes powerfully down on you. Which way to shore? Which way home? In a dire situation like this a lighthouse is welcome lifeline. As you do your best to navigate the storm you find some solace in the fact that you are at least headed in the direction of safety as you are guided by the light.
Just as lights illuminate our way and guide us in darkness or storms, our loving Father is a light for our souls. Even more so, in a world beset with so much pain, loss, and hatred on top of so many opinions and ideas that vie for our attention, it’s such a comfort to know that at every point we have God at our side. He and His Word guide us to keep us from traveling down a destructive road. Instead, He leads us on a path that is life giving. Even during challenging times, He helps us to think, feel, and act in ways that give light. In a world engulfed with spiritual darkness and evil, Jesus shines as a beacon offering love for hate, beauty for ashes, wisdom in the face of confusion, and hope in the place of despair.
May we set our gaze on Him to light our way to true life.