This is the third of seven devotions I have written for d365.org. d365 has been a favorite resource of mine for over ten years. It has been a privilege to write for them! Please visit the website for the full d365 experience.
PAUSE
Our God is one – unity.
Our God is three – diversity.
Our God is three in one – mystery.
LISTEN
Genesis 1:3-5 (CEB)
God said, “Let there be light.” And so light appeared. God saw how good the light was. God separated the light from the darkness. God named the light Day and the darkness Night.
There was evening and there was morning: the first day.
THINK
Why are we so often afraid of the dark? What is it about darkness that makes our imaginations run wild with the scariest things that could happen or the worst-case scenarios? For God, “even then the darkness isn’t too dark for you… because darkness is the same as light to you (Common English Bible, Psalm 139.12)!”
Our God is the God of day and night, light and darkness. One is not better than the other because both are part of God’s good creation. We need not fear the dark because we know the One who rules it. We also know that it is God who brings light from the darkest of places. The next time you find yourself gripped by the fear of darkness, remind yourself of these truths, breathe deeply the breath of God, let the fear settle, and know that God is with you.
PRAY
God of light and darkness, break through the darkness of our hearts so that we may be warmed by your light. Let our lives reflect your light in the darkness of the world. Open our eyes to see you in the darkness. Help us remember your presence there and the ways you call us to be with those who may be trapped in their fears, worries, or heartbreak. Amen.
GO
Work for unity.
Engage diversity.
Welcome mystery.