Read John 8:12-14  

Light of the world

At one point in C. S. Lewis’ “Voyage of the Dawn Treader” the ship finds itself enclosed in inky, black darkness, sailing toward the Dark Island. As they follow the despairing cries of those trapped on the island, one man – Lord Rhoop – swims desperately to the ship where he is dragged aboard. He warns them urgently that they must flee this terrible place and the darkness that engulfs them but finding their way through it seems impossible. Realising their terrible danger, Lucy prays and in response, an albatross appears, taking the form of a white cross of light which leads them to safety.

I love this story because it beautifully illustrates how Jesus shines into the darkness of our lives, leading us to a safe place.

It’s generally accepted that when Jesus declared Himself to be “the Light of the world”, He did so at the conclusion of the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles. This is significant because throughout the feast the Temple candelabra blazed brightly, but not on the final day. In the absence of this light, Jesus announced that He is the Light of the whole world!

19 years ago, at Christmas, I found myself in a very dark place. My personal world had been literally turned upside down, and although I didn’t know it at the time, I was burnt out.

Just like Lord Rhoop, I felt imprisoned on a dark Island.

And like Lucy, I prayed – a lot.

And Jesus shone His light into my darkness. Through the light of love and support from my wife and family. The light of encouragement and prayers from friends and mentors.

But most of all, through the light of His Presence and His Word.

Step by step, He guided me out of the darkness.

Are you imprisoned on a dark island now?

Then pray and let Jesus be the Light of your world!