John 8:12 KJV
[12] Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.
Jesus was speaking in the temple, after confronting the scribes and the Pharisees with their hypocrisy and eye-service. They had brought a wornan caught in adultery to Jesus, seeking judgment for her, but conveniently leaving out the other party who was also guilty of adultery. Jesus used the opportunity to teach a number of lessons, but the one that is relevant to our reflection today is that of mercy, not judgment. Jesus came into the world to teach and show us a new way to God, and to establish the principles and practices of His kingdom. The ones who brought the woman thought they were morally upright, but when Jesus showed them the error of that mentality, they all left. The woman had her sins forgiven, and she was charged not to sin anymore. That is the power and effect of the person and message of Christ.
After the accusers left, Jesus spoke the words of the verse above to the crowd that was left. Just in case that there was still any doubt, He laid out his identity and mission, so that the crowd could make up its mind how it would respond and react to His message. He referred to Himself as the light of the world. He is light, and of course, can only give what He is and what He has. The world itself is in deep darkness as a result of sin, and the world as a system cannot be redeemed, because it is under the control and influence of the devil, and has already been destined for destruction. However, for as many as would take the step of faith, seeking out the light and making Him their personal Saviour and Master, they walk into a new realm of liberty and enlightenment that cannot be obtained anywhere or in anyone else.
The light is avaliable for everyone, no matter how dark the past has been. This light is not the type that can be overcome by darkness, unless I decide to limit the operation of light in my own life. This is also the power of my personal choice, as God will not force Himself on me, or go against the exercise of my freewill. For as many as will decide to follow after the light, there is an assurance that they will not walk in darkness. That light also gives life, because it is only by this light that our path to eternal life with God is secured. Recall the words of Jesus to his disciples just before he went to the cross: " I am the Way, the Truth and the Life". That statement has been true since it was spoken, and will remain true as long as this earth remains. While there is time, the invitation to come to the light stands. The time is coming when the offer will be withdrawn, and darkness will be the eternal state of all who reject Jesus to the end. Now you know, how do you respond? God's time of favour is here.
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