Light In the Darkness
By Margaret Cook, M.Ed., Licensed Professional Counselor, Life Coach
Then the LORD said to Moses," Stretch out your hand toward the sky, that there may be darkness over the land of Egypt, even a darkness which may be felt." So Moses stretched out his hand toward the sky, and there was thick darkness in all the land of Egypt for three days. They did not see one another, nor did anyone rise from his place for three days, but all the sons of Israel had light in their dwellings. Then Pharaoh called to Moses, and said, "Go, serve the LORD; only let your flocks and your herds be detained. Even your little ones may go with you." Exodus 10: 21 – 24 (New American Standard)
When the children of Israel were in bondage, one of the ways God obtained Pharaoh’s attention was with a “black out.” This story in Exodus 10 tells us that Moses pulled a curtain of darkness over Egypt that lasted three days. Notice that the children of Israel remained in the light.
Pray for the dark places in the world. The places where hearts hardened to God’s requests bring many kinds of suffering and loneliness. In the darkness people are more alone. Consider the world in which we live and all of the ways that people are alone and do not see each other or the will of God. Pray for the light of the world to shine everywhere. Invite people in darkness to come to church and to share the light in our lives.
Especially at Christmas we enjoy the light of God’s presence in the earth. What a wonderful time of the year. We are reminded of the contrast of night and day of dark and light. Winter darkness comes early in the evening and stays late in the morning, and yet the glory of the Lord shines always and forevermore.
Thank you God for the gift of your Son, our light and our hope in any darkness or shadow. Let your glory fill the earth at this Christmas Season and remind us of the miraculous birth of our Messiah. May everyone receive an invitation to hear the story and to share in the presence of God with us – Emmanuel. Amen.
Copyright © December 2007 – Margaret Cook. All rights reserved.
Permission to use or duplicate this article is available by contacting the author at
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