The True Light in Darkness

When the early Church Father Augustine discussed the darkness described in Genesis, he asked in Confessions: “Darkness was upon the face of the deep; what else was it than the absence of light?” He also understood evil as a privation of good. Though sin may run rampant in the world, it cannot overcome the true light of Christ. As John declares, “The light shines in the darkness.” People may reject Christ’s light, but they cannot extinguish it.

When the Lord’s light reveals the darkness in my life, it is not a pleasant experience. Yet the loving Lord never abandons me. He continues to drive away the darkness within me.Jesus Christ is the true light. The church is called to bear witness to him, like a lamp placed on a stand or a city built on a hill, so that others may see him through our loving words and actions. Will you allow Christ to shine into your own heart today, and then bring his truth and love to those around you?

Prayer: Lord, let your true light shine into our hearts and drive away the darkness within us. Give us strength and courage to proclaim the salvation of Christ. Through our words and actions, help others see his light. Amen.