Day 16; the light comes in LEADING us along our path.

LEADING

It’s important to understand that as it leads, the light illuminates our path but doesn’t lighten the load.

Like this trail here. The light makes me aware of the rocky patches and the prickly cactus but the sunshine doesn’t erase them.

There are still rough spots.

Psalm 91 reads: “You will call on me and I will answer you. I will be with you in trouble. I will deliver you and honor you.”

Isaiah 43 says: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you. And when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze… you, YOU are precious and honored in my sight… Do not be afraid for I am with you.”

Faith is more than a crutch or cliche. It’s work. It takes practice and effort. Just because you follow the light or love God doesn’t guarantee a cushy life. The scripture says “I will be with you IN trouble” not I will protect you from trouble. The verse in Isaiah says WHEN you pass through the waters not “follow me for an smooth ride.”

Jesus himself, God in human form himself did NOT have an easy life. That says a lot. Despite it all, He came for you and for me giving more than this broken, rough world could ever offer.

Call out to God when it feels dark, rough, overwhelming or scary. We have a God who knows what it’s like to lose a friend, to need some time away from the crowd, while also being the one who harnessed heat & light making the sun to greet us every morning.