READ: 2 Samuel 17, 18; Psalm 140; John 3:1-21
SCRIPTURE: John 3:19 This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.
20 Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed.
21 But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God.
OBSERVATION: As we see here, the Gospel of John frequently says of the difference between light and darkness. Further, it links light with Jesus Christ. Sometimes, we wonder why many people who agree with the greatness of the Gospel do not come to Christ. The Gospel is certainly not a mystery to comprehend its message. In Jn 3:19, we see a reason for their stubbornness; they love darkness as their deeds are evil. Although “the light shines in the darkness”, they are not ready to understand it. Many people (including some Christians) misunderstand that a life with Christ means a life with so many rules and regulations, do’s and don'ts. They are afraid that their freedom to do things will be affected if they come to Christ. They want to enjoy their unconstrained life-style, despite knowing that their deeds are evil. So, when light shines on their life and deeds, they hide themselves in darkness.
On the other hand, whoever or anyone who lives by the truth gladly comes to the light. See the stark contrast between the attitude of people who prefer to live in darkness and people who live by the truth of God. Light reveals the true nature of all deeds, whether it is good or evil. Living in the light of Christ is not a burden, but a pleasurable experience as we can see things clearly as it is. Further, it gives no embarrassment, fear, worries of possible negative outcomes, and shame. Rather, it gives life, joy, and a foretaste of heavenly life, as we enjoy a loving relationship with God. Those who love darkness have already chosen their destiny and condemnation. It is our choice to choose life or death, light or darkness. Our decision to follow Christ brings life to our spiritual life and helps to live in the light of Christ without any fear.
APPLICATION: I love the light and want to live by the truth of God. Jesus is my light who removes all darkness and evil from my life. When I live under the light of God, darkness has no place in my life. Living under the light gives me the confidence that God sees me and my every deed. Unlike the momentary pleasures and eternal troubles that those who do evil deeds experience while they live in darkness, the light of God fills my life with an inexpressible and glorious joy. It is a great blessing, for me and anyone, to live in the light of Christ.
PRAYER: Jesus, you are the light of the world. Your light offers hope for my uncertain life and helps to see things properly. Lord, help me to love your light and hate darkness. Help me to live by the truth in your light throughout my life. Amen.
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