Afraid of the dark? And the city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God is its light, and its lamp is the Lamb. Revelation 21:22 I have a confession to make: I'm still a little bit afraid of the dark. Especially if I'm outside. So on those occasions when I go out after dark, I carry a flashlight. Lately it seems like the world is dark even in broad daylight. And sometimes it feels a little scary to go out. And yet one of the most common commands in scripture from God to his people is “Be not afraid.” If only we had something to light our way... “Your word is a lantern to my feet and a light upon my path.” Ps. 119:105 This verse from the psalmist is intended for us. When we are unsure of our path because it feels dark out there, we are encouraged to turn to God's Word. Through the centuries, God's people have turned to his word for guidance and assurance. Why would we do any differently today. When we come to the scriptures, we pray that God would use them to “shed a little light” on our lives as well as the world we live in. As followers of Jesus, we are called to be light bearers. The light is not our own, but rather that of Christ our Savior. When we immerse ourselves in God's word, the eyes of our hearts are opened and enlightened by Jesus, the light incarnate. I’m still going to carry a flashlight when I walk outside at night. And when the world feels dark and scary I will remember that God’s Word has plenty of light to shed on the matter. The light of Christ has come into the world and the darkness has not, will not, and cannot overcome it. Blessings,
Matthew+ O God, you have prepared for those who love you such good things as surpass our understanding: Pour into our hearts such love towards you, that we, loving you in all things and above all things, may obtain your promises, which exceed all that we can desire; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. (BCP p. 225) | 
