“The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word…” Hebrews 1:3
When I was in high school my church youth group went on a small trip to Carlsbad Caverns. We took in all the sights at this wonderful national park. We ventured into the large cave and explored the wonders of a world deep beneath the ground. We gathered outside the caves, late in the evening, to watch the bats emerge from their slumber and go hunting. It was an amazing experience to see these massive caves.
One of my favorite experiences at Carlsbad was to explore a large cave with a park ranger. Our group was able to explore a separate cave and, while on the journey, be educated by a very knowledgeable leader. We joined the ranger and began the journey inside the cave. We had walked for quite some time until we were deep beneath the surface. It was a beautiful sight to see all of the features inside the cave. We learned the difference between and stalactite and stalagmite. One of my favorite experiences was standing in the depth of that cave and, at the park rangers lead, we turned off all of our lights. It was dark! It was so dark that when you placed your hand over your eyes, it did not change a thing. The ranger assured us that if you were deep in the cavern, and you lost your light, the chance of finding the exit to the cavern would be almost impossible.
Darkness is debilitating. In just a few moments you begin to lose your sense of direction. You grow unsure of your footing. I have no doubt that the park ranger was correct. Finding our way in the dark would be impossible.
Over and over again the scriptures refer to Jesus as light. The writer of Hebrews states that Jesus is, “the radiance of God’s glory.” No doubt the Biblical writers understood that each of us find ourselves in dark places, struggling to find our way. Without light, it is almost impossible. That is why we look to Jesus. His life is our example. His grace is our strength. His teaching is the direction for our journey and our relationship with Him opens our eyes and brings the light of God into our life. In the darkest of moments, we can find our way, because God is with us, and He is our ever-present light.
Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
