Forgiven: Darkness

The next several posts, in preparing our hearts for the celebration of Resurrection Sunday, we will feature a favorite DaySpring publication entitled "Forgiven, Heart Reflections by Roy Lessin." This book was originally created to be used as a "book-style tract," offering the Gospel in a way that an unbeliever would come to understand what we, as Christians, believe. 

Each post will include several scriptures, written in a paragraph style with their references below, a reflection, and a prayer. Please feel free to share this content with your friends who may not fully understand the meaning of Easter, or why we celebrate. 

We pray that as you read, reflect and pray through the writings presented, your hearts will be turned towards Jesus, and your faith renewed. 

Grace and Peace,
Marina
For Roy Lessin, and Meeting in the Meadow

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'This is the message we have heard from Him and announce to you, that God is light, and in Him there is no darkness at all. For God, who said, 'Light shall shine out of darkness,' is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.' 'To open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from dominion of Satan to God, in order that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified by faith in Me.' 'Because of the tender mercy of our God, with which the Sunrise from on high shall visit us, TO SHINE UPON THOSE WHO SIT IN DARKNESS AND THE SHADOW OF DEATH, to guide our feet into the way of peace.' 

1 John 1:5, II Corinthians 4:6, Acts 26:18, Luke 1:78-79 (Emphasis added)

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Spiritual darkness is the absence of God's truth in our hearts and lives. We can have an education and still be in darkness. We can study philosophy and religion and still be in darkness. We can go to church or do social work in our community and still live in darkness. We can be sincere or be tolerant of others and what they believe and still be in darkness.

Darkness is unbelief. Darkness is deception, keeping us from the knowledge of God. Darkness is separation, keeping us from the fellowship of God. Darkness is isolation, keeping us from the presence of God. Darkness is something we should treat as an enemy yet when we are in sin, we treat it as a friend. We like darkness—it hides us from being exposed for who we really are. The sin in us runs deep, and the darkness is our cloak. 

Although we may be hiding from Him, He is not hiding from us. Jesus seeks us out in our darkness. He is standing near us, clothed with white garments...covered with glory...reaching out with arms of mercy...inviting us into the marvelous light of His forgiveness and love. 

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Lord, 

Deliver me from the darkness of my own way. Place Your truth within me so I may know You and Your ways. I want to come out of my hiding and walk with You in Your light. I know that nothing is hidden from You; You know me inside and out. I release every lie and deception that has kept me from You. Thank You that You can take me from the kingdom of darkness and place me into the kingdom of light. I welcome Your light and love into my life. 

Amen

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