MARCH 19 | JOHN 8:12-20

Judy Webb
Mar 19
2 min read

DAILY READING

John 8:12-20

REFLECTION

Not Ready Yet

By Judy Webb

“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life.” (John 12:12)

Some of us look forward to daylight savings time as we step out of a long dark winter and a emerge into a new beginning, a season of bright light. Being able to walk the dog without a flashlight or send the kids off to the bus stop in daylight seems a real treat. The dark often is scary and threatening. When walking a dark country road in the dead of night can make one’s pulse quicken. But turning onto a street bathed in the glow of a lamp changes the feel.

“...His hour had not yet come.” John 8:20 (John 2:4 and John 7:30)

This statement is made a number of times during Jesus’ ministry. He performed many miracles, signs, and wonders, all of which prompted the people to tell everyone they knew. But Jesus, recognizing it would bring undue and early attention to Him, he often requested those present to say nothing.

But, when the religious leaders did get wind of his doings, they challenged him, questioned, and accused him of blasphemy. When Jesus explained himself to these closed-minded zealots more trouble inevitably erupted; their hearts were so very hardened toward him, and they desired only to close his mouth permanently.

When Jesus declared, “I Am the Light of the World”, a strong contrast to the darkness of those opposing Him, the words fell on deaf ears. He went on to explain, “He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness.” Scripture often speaks of God’s Word as light, “Your word is a lamp unto my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105) This points to the fact that light on our path takes us out of darkness and reveals the places on our path which could trip us up. Our behavior and habits which are kept in the dark, now have a light shining on them. We see our shortfalls and sinful ways and are perhaps convicted to change. The Light of God will do that for us.

There is a sense of safety in the light. Darkness no longer has a hold on you. Fear is vanquished in the Light. Remember, His hour had not yet come, but it was dawning.

PRAYER

Dear Jesus,

Your word will always point us to you, to truth, and to light. As we walk this Lenten journey give us the Light of Your Word to guide us on the path to You. Come Holy Spirit, give us wisdom to step into this light and never allow us to wander in the darkness again. Amen.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

JUDY WEBB

I have been a member of UALC for 26 years and have been writing devotions for this site for about 19 of them. Writing is my passion. As retired staff I still love everything about UALC and its members including my small group.