When you think about it for only a moment you must admit that there is a great deal of darkness in our world. Everywhere we read (or see) that there is violence – people physically hurting one another and then there are the untold acts of psychological violence. The ‘news’ that’s reported reminds one of the scriptures, 2 Timothy 3, that tells us that in the last days there will be terrible times. The total disregard for life, the lack of integrity by those who lead, and the lack of morality – these all speaks to this. Pointing fingers won’t help, holding those accountable who act in these ways will.
There is some light but it seems to be only a pin point. However, it’s surprising how much darkness can be disbursed with only a tiny amount of light. The other amazing fact is that this tiny pin point can be seen by multitudes for great distances. According to one report, “vision scientists conclude that one could make out the faint glimmer of a candle flame up to 30 miles away.” (livescience.com) That is remarkable!
Paul, in his teaching on unequal yoking, (2 Corinthians 6:14)
“…For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And
what communion has light with darkness.”
Strong defines ‘darkness’ as: “The word is used literally for physical darkness and metaphorically for spiritual, moral and intellectual darkness. The darkness arises from error, ignorance, disobedience, willful blindness, and rebellion. Darkness is an evil system absolutely opposed to the light.”
Scripture tells us:
“You are the light of the world…” (Matthew 5:14 – Jesus’ words)
Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good
works and glorify your Father in heaven.” (v. 16)
The question: if we don’t fulfill our opportunity and responsibility to be light in the world we populate, who will? If we aren’t salt and light then the darkness will be all that is known. Without light all that will be seen and known is the darkness of disobedience, blindness, rebellion. It isn’t a question of whether or not it is ‘easy’ to be light, we are simply to be light wherever we are. “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.” (Ephesians 5:8)
