“Again Jesus said to them, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.’” (John 8:12)
Following the worst mass shooting in America – the Las Vegas shooting on October 1, 2017, Pastor Robert Jeffress was questioned by a reporter. “What would you say to the grieving families of victims? The pastor explained the importance of holding on to what light we have in order to get us through times of darkness. Then he shared this story.
He and his wife were traveling in West Texas at night when a fierce thunder storm struck with terrible downpours. Visibility was nearly non-existent and it was impossible to even follow the road. How did they manage to make it home? When a tractor-trailer rig passed their car, they pulled up behind it – close enough to see its tail lights. Then they followed its lights, not looking to the right or left, until they got through the storm.
Just as he had to focus on those tail lights, we need to focus on the True Light – Jesus Christ (John 1:9) in the midst of our worst darkness. We may be surrounded by the darkness of injustice and tragedy. At those times it is imperative that we never remove our eyes from the true light of the world, Jesus Christ. Do we suffer temptation and abuse? Then look to Jesus and consider His sufferings (Hebrews 12:1-3). The Bible assures us that Jesus has been tempted in every way we are, yet He never sinned (Hebrews 4:15). Jesus’ sufferings are a light to those who suffer in darkness.
Have you been passed over for promotion and opportunities for advancement? Has your work gone unnoticed and unrewarded? Then keep your eyes on the Light of the World, Jesus. He is the ultimate Judge who exalts those who follow Him (Psalm 75:6).
Are you plunged into the darkness of mortal danger? Don’t lose sight of Jesus who’s already conquered death, lives forever to intercede for you, and will bring you safely into His heavenly kingdom (2 Timothy 4:18).
REFLECTION
- What darkness surrounds you? Isn’t it a darkness that the Lord Himself has faced?
- If so, then doesn’t Jesus know exactly what you’re going through and how you feel?
- You are not alone in your darkness. Jesus is with you. He’s been this way before. so follow Him, trust in Him, and keep His light in focus.
