Today’s Reading: John 8:12-20
Hearing God’s Voice for Today:
“Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’”
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Here is the second of Jesus’ “I am” statements in John’s Gospel. He is sharing his true identity—God in human flesh, sent from heaven as the light of salvation. He came to give light to all human darkness.
Jesus shines his light into the darkness of your soul, revealing how dark it truly is. This light also reveals the steps to escaping your darkened condition and moving into the light. He shows you the answers to the questions that haunt your heart.
You wonder if there is life after this one? Jesus shines his light toward heaven’s gates to show you your way home. You wonder if that wound left in darkness will ever heal? He shines his light into your hurting heart to begin your healing. You wonder if there’s any future for you? He shines his light into your despairing heart to give you hope. You wonder if it’s safe to keep moving forward in life? He shines his light on your life’s path so you will know the next step you should take.
Jesus is the light of the world. More importantly, he is your light in the world. When you know him and trust him with every area of your life, you have the source of all light living inside you.
His light is stronger than any darkness. Light a single match in a dark room, and it overpowers the darkness. Likewise, all darkness must flee before the overpowering strength of Jesus’ light—no matter how small it may be.
The sun, moon, and stars prove this reality. They overcome all darkness. And the brighter the light, the less darkness there is. Think about the sun at high noon on a cloudless day. There is no darkness. There is only clarity.
But think about this reality as well: In heaven there will be no need for a sun, moon, or stars. Jesus’ very presence will light up the New Jerusalem and all of heaven. His light will dominate every part of the new heaven and new earth.
He is the light of all other lights. He is the light of the world. He is your light today as you walk in this world. He is a lamp to your feet, showing you your next step as you move toward your eternal destiny.
Believe in Jesus today. Trust him with your next step. Believe what he says about himself. Call on him in your time of trouble. He wants to rescue you.
Jesus has not forgotten about you. He helps the fallen and lifts them up beneath their loads. Though you may trip, you will never fall. He holds you by your hand and listens to your cries for help. He is the strength of your heart. You belong to him. He is yours forever. He is your light.
In him, all your places of darkness can be overcome.
He is stronger than any dark place in your life.
[from “Hearing the Voice of God” by Pastor David Chadwick, Moments of Hope Church, Charlotte, NC]