Hope in the Darkness- Tuesday, December 5th

WEEK ONE: HOPE IN THE DARKNESS

THE GLEAM OF A LANTERN

Psalm 119:105 (NRSV)

Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.

Those of us who have camped outdoors at night can appreciate the power of a ‘lamp for our feet!’ As we walk through the unfamiliar darkness we could easily stumble over obstacles or wander in the wrong direction. It would be unwise to walk blindly ahead on our own, without any assistance. So it is with the paths we walk every day, as well as the longer journey of life itself. We need help to choose the better routes, to see with clarity the obstacles before us (or within us!), and to walk more confidently and steadily.

“Your word is a lamp for my feet…” This verse is so descriptive of God’s provision for us. God’s word in the scriptures, along with God’s Word lovingly shown through Jesus, help guide our steps every day. One interesting aspect of this verse is that we are only given a lamp for our feet. God is not shining a bright spotlight far down the path ahead. When Jesus said, “Do not worry about tomorrow,” he meant that. God’s Word and love are for this present moment. It is enough to know and feel God’s loving guidance, re-direction, and strength for our very next step. We can journey on, one step at a time, confident in God’s caring provision all along the way.

Today, let’s take a few moments to thank God for providing for us in the past.  Let’s also notice how God is providing for us right now. As we do so, we will find our hope for every next step, for every unknown path that lies ahead.

Hope shines in God’s sufficient provision.