Advent 2 Wednesday - Light In Dark Times

Some of the most hope-filled words in the Bible for me are these:

The people who walk in darkness will see a great light – a light that will shine on all who live in the land where death casts its shadow.  Isaiah 9:2

Because of God’s tender mercy, the light from heaven is about to break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, and to guide us to the path of peace.  Luke 1:78-79

I don’t know how dark your world has ever gotten, or even how dark it might seem today, but I know that in the deepest darkest times in my life, God has always been there, ready to shine a light into the dark places of my soul and guide me to a path of peace.

I am 100% convinced that God is still here with us today and ready to do the same for us today, no matter how difficult and heavy things feel in our hearts.

Into our deep darkness and despair, God speaks hope to us, and promises us light, “A light will shine ... on those who walk in darkness.”  Although we may not have recognized it so far, the  voice of God, is tenderly calling out to us and pursuing us with His love.  Here are some helpful instructions from God today for welcoming light into our darkness:

But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.   Jude 1:20-21

And so Heavenly Father, here we are today coming to you for light and hope in our journey.  When we are weak, help us to remember to build ourselves by simply praying and keeping ourselves in Your love as we wait.

I bless anyone struggling to do that today God, that You will strengthen them to hope and to reach out to You. 

Help them to receive Your mercy and love – even if they don’t understand how it all works help them to simply trust You and say,

“Lord You are merciful to people like me.  I receive Your love and comfort.  Make me strong in Your love right now.” 

Lord, I pray for significant break throughs for many today who are troubled and feeling like they are in a dark place. 

Break through with Your tender mercy and bring hope and healing.  Fill them up with Your goodness and help them to know what a good good Father you are to those who put their trust in You.  Amen