No darkness at all!

 
“This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you,                                                  that God is light and in God there is no darkness at all.” I John 1:5

These words of bold hope and comfort are a message to each one of us and to a world that keeps on changing and muddling through daily messes. These words speak to the reality of life that knows deep darkness, but also the brilliant light of a love greater than anything dark. 

Maybe you have experienced loss this year or despair over difficult health issues. Maybe you have known loneliness or hurt over broken relationships or economic realities that challenge daily decisions about what to hold on to or let go of. 

In all these things, I am reminded that in the darkest of times, I am not alone! That because God is there with me, the darkness can be transformed into light. That the bright light of a baby born and the knowledge that I am completely loved no matter what, changes everything!

Then, once I am open and aware that God’s light and love surround me, I can face each night with the understanding and assurance that the darkness of the night is temporary and tomorrow is a new day filled with hope. I can wake up and “do something” to brighten my days and the days of those around me. I can call someone and have a great conversation or get together with them. I can read a book,  I can listen to music, I can make a meal for myself or for others.

May you be hopeful in the darkness and believe that the God who has loved you and sustained you with an everlasting love will be that same God for you and for all the people of this earth in the days to come.  God is faithful to all generations through His Son, Jesus, who came as a baby, who lived a life of love, and died to rise again giving us hope for what is and what will be!  So shine!

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