Let the Sun Shine In

Today is Day 36 of of Lockdown in New Zealand for the COVID-19 pandemic.  I am grateful that 2 days ago we left level 4 and are now in level 3 for however long.  This has allowed some people to return to work and some children to school, although parents are encouraged to keep children home if possible.  What a strange time it is and we all wonder what the new normal will look like.

Sitting in my 'study' today which is otherwise known as the guest room, I noticed the TV screen in front of me.  Reflected on its blackness are colours as the sun shines through a top window. Now, as the sun has moved there is very little colour.  I remembered a little song we used to hear on the radio years ago...... So let the sun shine in, face it with a grin, smilers never lose and frowners never win....."

Now, more than ever before we need to let the sun shine in; but how do we do that?  I'll tell you what I have found.  Reading the Bible is an amazing way to let light shine into our hearts.  In Psalm 119:30 it says "The entrance of your words give light...".  

How does it do that?  Because God's word is truth it brings enlightenment to our spirit in the best possible way.  You will find many books in the library these days that speak about light and enlightenment that will deceive you into looking for light in the wrong places.  People talk about being 'spiritual' or spirituality but it is rarely based in relationship with God through Jesus Christ.  It is 'me' centred making myself god, i.e. what I think/feel/experience is 'my truth'.  That may be, but it's really Satan's deception.  That way may bring you a certain peace for awhile but it will not be lasting, let alone eternal.  

God's word is truth.  God understands us because he made us.  He understands how we tick, he understands our weaknesses, our needs and our passions.  Reading God's word will bring light into our lives that will instruct, correct and enrich us in a way that nothing else can.  Haven't got a Bible?  You can find one online in any number of free apps.  Don't know where to start?  Start with the gospel of Mark, then John.  Have a look at the Psalms and get an online devotional like The Word For Today that will expand your reading..... https://vision.org.au/the-word-for-today/  

Let God's light come in by tuning into a Sunday service online or on TV.  His Word brings light because it brings hope to a hurting, lost world.  Just remember, this is not a one-time thing.  You need to keep letting the light of God's truth into your life.  Keep your face to the Son - Jesus Christ who says..... “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.” John 8:12 NLT

Prayer:  Lord Jesus Christ, thank you that you are the light of the world.  Thank you that no darkness dwells in you. Thank you that you willingly light up our world through your words and your love.  Give us a hunger for the truth and for understanding of your truth.  Amen