The Impact of Light

Joseph Turner was recognized as one of the great painters in the world by the early 19^th century. Yet he kept looking for ways to improve his art. Born in London in 1775, he experienced what became a turning point when he visited Italy for the first time in 1819.

In particular, what struck Turner was the light in that country. Suddenly, through the impact of that light, it seemed he was seeing life a new way. His approach to painting changed.

In his biography of Turner, James Hamilton describes “the shock of this first encounter with Venice.” More than ever before, he realized the importance of light.

Through his paintings, particularly after his experiences in Italy, Turner sought to illustrate the difference made by light. As he realized, light gives us a new perspective and changes how we look at people, things, and events in the world. And, when the light shines brightly, it changes our attitude toward problems and challenges.

The Bible tells us that, as the first act of creation, God spoke light into a world filled with darkness (Genesis 1:2-5). God Himself is our light (Psalm 27:1) and He called us “out of darkness into His marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9). We know that Jesus was the light of the world (John 9:5), but He also told us that, now, we are the light of the world (Matthew 5:14). And only in His light can we see light.

Today, the world is filled with spiritual darkness. They cannot see, and need the light. But we have it! And we are called to bring the Gospel to them. To be witnesses! To testify to the Truth. Dedicate yourself to this task. Walk in the light. And let His light shine through you.