“And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed. But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God.” John 3:19-21
“Won’t let Satan (blow) it out; I’m gonna let it shine; won’t let Satan (blow) it out; I’m gonna let it shine; let it shine; let it shine.” Who knew exactly which song that was and is now humming along with the tune? This song often brings back fond memories singing in children’s choir or teaching a child to sing this fun song and declare their light for the Lord.
But what happens when Satan does huff out our light? How do we respond when in the midst of our lives we find doubt? How do we cope with having zero faith in our servitude towards God and 100% confidence that things will ultimately be ok? How do hold frustration and hurt with God and know at the same time that our strength to survive the next hour, day, week, month only comes from him? What happens when our spirit is willing but our flesh is weak and the light we carry becomes but an ember?
We share; we lean on our Christian community and allow to God work through others. Satan dances in the darkness not because he draws strength from the darkness, but we feel alone and desperate. No person enjoys hardship whether it is experiencing it, listening to it or sharing it. Walking through difficulty is uncomfortable and walking beside one through their valleys is not peaceful. Yet we draw strength from our vulnerability; conversely the sharing of our pain and being perceived as weak is the exact thing that brings us strength. Satan can beat any single person and in his craftiness, he has made vulnerability a trait to shy away from. Our shared humanity which includes the ugly cry moments, the outbursts, the despair, bind us together and move us closer towards God.
The flame we carry for the Lord can wax and wane as we walk trough this life. Jesus does not promise us perfect lives as we follow in his footsteps. Jesus promises us life everlasting with him and God. In times when our flame becomes an ember, let God work through others. Let God fan the flame back to life and shine brighter through the people that love you and walk beside you. While Satan dances in the darkness; he flees from the light, and two lights are stronger than one.
Dear God,
Forgive the doubt and hurt that floods my life and snuffs out the light I carry for you and Jesus. I thank you for the people you have provided to hold me up and fan the flame back time after time. I ask that you continue to reveal yourself to me through others while you continue to build a majestic and bright kingdom here on earth. I will lean into the promises you made and fulfilled through your son Jesus Christ and try to be a light to others. Amen.
