Putting Out The Light?

When Nicodemus came to Jesus "at night", during their conversation Jesus noted light in relation to His coming into the world. ( John 3:19) However, there were those who did not like THE LIGHT. ( John 3:19-20) Later on Jesus would refer to Himself as "the LIGHT OF THE WORLD." ( John 8:12; 9:5) Those who hated THE LIGHT continued to seek to put out that LIGHT by attempting again and again to trap Jesus with their questions and find reason for accusation. Though they were blinded to God's plan in using the cross -- as Jesus even indicated in His discussion with Nicodemus ( John 3:14-15) -- they became party to Jesus' death on it.

After Jesus had been on the cross for three hours -- having been placed there the third hour of the day ( Mark 15:25) -- we read. . .
"(44) It was now about the sixth hour, and there was DARKNESS OVER THE WHOLE LAND until the ninth hour, (45) WHILE THE SUN'S LIGHT FAILED. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. (46) Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, 'Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!' And having said this he breathed his last." ( Luke 23:44-46 ESV)

There were hearts that were darkened by deep sorrow and sadness in watching our Lord's suffering. It did appear to be the end. As the "sun's light failed" it was almost as if creation was in mourning over what was taking place. It was a dark deed that had been done. In this work of the devil and under the blind leadership of the Jewish officials it truly was a time of darkness. ( Luke 22:53) However, as the "sun's light failed", had the SON'S LIGHT also failed? Had God's eternal plan been thwarted? Had darkness overpowered THE LIGHT?

In attempting to encourage the disciples before this time of confusion, Jesus had told them that in a little while they would not see Him, but then in a little while they would see Him again. ( John 16:16) Jesus, knowing they struggled understanding that ( John 16:17-19) went on to state. . .

"(20) Truly, truly, I say to you, you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice. You will be sorrowful, but YOUR SORROW WILL TURN INTO JOY. (21) When a woman is giving birth, she has sorrow because her hour has come, but when she has delivered the baby, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world. (22) So also you have sorrow now, but I WILL SEE YOU AGAIN, and YOUR HEARTS WILL REJOICE, and NO ONE WILL TAKE YOUR JOY FROM YOU." ( John 16:20-22 ESV)

The darkness would be there for a moment, but THE LIGHT was not put out for long. The darkness experienced in view of the cross was soon to turn to the LIGHT OF JOY that could not be taken from them. In view of Jesus are we experiencing THAT JOY as well? As we continue to keep our focus on Jesus -- THE LIGHT -- may the LIGHT OF JOY continue to be radiant in and through our lives.

Have a great day JOYFULLY LIVING IN THE EVERLASTING LIGHT!
Carl

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