Transforming Light

Let Jesus shine His transforming light into the dark places in your life.

“Walk while you have the Light, so that darkness will not overtake you; also, the one who walks in the darkness does not know where he is going … believe in the Light, so that you may become sons of Light.”—John 12:35–36 NASB

Although people settled in cities partly for increased security, crime often became a chronic problem, particularly at night. In his classic study of cities throughout history, Lewis Mumford describes how, even in an advanced city like Rome, “the streets were dark at night and people ventured forth only at the risk of their lives.”

But adding light changed everything. Describing the impact of light on the city of Ephesus, an observer in the fourth century AD wrote: “The brilliancy of the lamps at night often equaled the light of day.” Another account tells how, because of light, the citizens of Antioch “have shaken off the tyranny of sleep.” As a result, people felt safer, and there was an explosion of new commerce. Light transformed the very character of civilization.

In similar ways, light transforms our spiritual lives. If we walk in darkness, we will stumble, make mistakes, and fall into sin. But when we follow Jesus and walk in the light, we see more clearly and avoid temptations and traps. As Jesus’ followers, we now are “sons of Light” and the “light of the world.” We’re called to illuminate dark places!

We must surrender our lives to Jesus, allow the Holy Spirit to direct us, obey God’s Word, and devote ourselves to prayer. As our lives are transformed, we demonstrate to others the difference Jesus makes. Let God’s light change you and make you a blessing to others!

Reflection Question: In which areas of your life do you need God to shine His light in?