Focus on the Light
“In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
John 1:4-5
I remember getting lost as a little kid in New York state. I was 5 years old. My older brother, myself, and another boy went far away from our house through the woods to a creek where we played.
We stayed too late and it got dark, too dark for us to see our way home. I was really scared. It seemed like spiders and spider webs were surrounding us. The darkness seemed so great. No house lights, or street lights. Only the stars. We cried out for help, but no one could hear us.
My mom called the Sherriff’s department. Multiple law enforcement and community folks came out to search for the three lost boys. They considered dragging the lakes. All the while, we were out there in the dark, waiting.
It seemed like we waited forever. Then I saw a light flicker in the distance. It got more and more steady, and then I heard my dad’s voice calling our names! We started shouting and laughing for joy. We were found. We were going home!
Seeing that light made all the difference in the world. When I saw the light and focused on the light, my heart was glad and I knew it was going to be ok.
This little story has a power message for us today. It seems like everywhere we turn, darkness is creeping in on us. At times it seems like injustice and evil are winning.
Evil forces attack people with no warning. Our government, courts and leaders are leading us away from God’s Word toward a world without His rule or rest. Our national economy seems to be spinning out of control toward collapse and chaos. Innocent children are trafficked locally and abroad for money. It’s not hard to see the darkness today.
A friend reminded me this week to “remember to focus on the light.” It was such a simple statement, but a powerful message. No matter how bad our circumstances get, God is bigger and greater. No matter how dark and broken our hearts feel, God is bigger than our hearts. No matter how bad this world gets, God is able to transform it into a brand new heaven and earth.
Focusing on the light is the key. As you face uncertain times, remember that God is greater than any problem you face. His love can overcome any obstacle and transform any circumstance we face in this world. He is not defeated when evil advances in our world. He remains God, mighty and transcendent, through it all. Praise His name!
We can’t spread light when our hearts are focused on the darkness. We need to face the darkness, head towards it with courage, and not be afraid. But we need to focus on the light.
Keep reading God’s Word daily. Keep worshipping Him and listening to praise music. Spend time with other believers who are full of light. Laugh at things that are funny. Enjoy the beauty of the sunset. Stop and enjoy the beauty and fragrance of a lovely flower. Ponder on the power, faithfulness and character of Jesus.
These are the ways we focus on the light. Where our treasure is, there will our heart be also. Let’s treasure Jesus, the Light of the World. He shines like an unfailing Sun of Righteousness every moment of every day. Keep your eyes on Him.
He has overcome darkness. His light shines forever. Focus on His light, and then His light will shine through you!