Sitting in the Darkness

( picture from Pinterest)

Christmas cheer, Christmas cheer – it’s such a joyous time of year. Even those with no connection to Jesus celebrate the giving and blessings of the season.

But it’s not like Christmas and Easter are the only two times Jesus shows up each year. He’s right here with us all the time. Twenty-four hours a day, 365 days a year. On our good days and in our bad times. Have you ever heard the phrase, When you can't look on the bright side, I’ll sit with you in the dark?

Jesus will sit with us in the dark.

Some may argue that in Christ, there is no darkness – so how can we sit there?

We live in a world surrounded by people who, like us, have the freedom to choose their thoughts and actions. Their thoughts and actions can bring darkness into our lives. Even our own bad decisions can bring darkness into our homes. Sickness that shows up out of nowhere brings darkness. Financial struggles bring darkness. Sometimes darkness seems to find a way in, no matter where we are; it can show up on a honeymoon, or while delivering your precious child into this world. It can show up unexpectedly, or it can creep in slowly, over time.

Starting today, let’s invite God to sit in the darkness with us and see what He can do.

Isaiah 9:6 reveals, “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and His Name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace.”

You get to choose! Who would you rather have sitting in the darkness with you? The One who can lift the darkness? Or your own worst fears?

In John 14:26, Jesus tells us that “the Comforter, which is the Holy Spirit of God, whom the Father will send in my [Jesus’s] name, he will teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said to you.”

We need to be reminded. During this season and throughout the coming new year, remember Who you’re connected to and invite Him into your presence daily.