“Darkness cannot remain in the presence of pure light.”
Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – May 22, 2021
This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross. But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him. Acts 2:23-24, NIV
The resurrection was the only possible outcome of the crucifixion.
The passion of Christ was tragic, but it was not an accident. Tragic, in that the weight of sin and depths of our rebellion required nothing less than God himself to break into our darkness and set us free. Yet at the same time, beautifully and gloriously intentional. God in Christ was not forced to enter our world, nor was he led against his will to the cross. Jesus Christ descended in love, and that same love caused him to ascend the cross as a conquering king.
Though Jesus entered into a world of darkness, and even in his death took that darkness upon himself, there was never a moment in which that darkness could overtake or overpower him. As it says in 1 John 1:5, “This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all (NIV)”. Darkness cannot remain in the presence of pure light. Death cannot claim victory when confronted with the uncreated life of God. It is simply impossible.
What does this mean for you and for me? First, we must be sober minded and clear about our own freedoms and limitations. We are free to choose life, or to choose death. And because of the sickness of sin that lives within us, it is not inevitable that we will all end the journey of life in victory. Some of us will choose sin, say yes to darkness, even when faced with the possibility of life eternal. However, the distance between us and Christ is not meant to be a cause of shame or despondency but is instead an inexhaustible well of hope. Though the distance may seem great, the victory of Christ reveals to us a way forward, a way out of the darkness and into the light and life of God.
Christ is the life of the world, and receives in love everyone who draws near to him. And not only does he receive us, but he promises to make us like him, to heal our souls and drive out the death and darkness that invades and deforms every part of our lives. The power of God shown in Christ is not meant to drive us away, but is a beacon of light welcoming all who draw near.
Prayer
Father, thank you for the hope we have in Christ. Give us the strength today to move towards him in faithful obedience, receiving his life as our own. Amen.
Application
What darkness in your heart and life can you invite the Lord to begin to heal and restore through his love?
Related Reading
Psalm 27:1; 1 Timothy 6:16; James 1:17
Worship Resource
Sandra McCracken: Christ is the Life of the World
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