A prayer to see God’s hope reflected in the summer light
Author: Whitney Hopler
“When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. He who follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” – John 8:12, NIV
Listen or read below:
Summer is a season full of light. The sun rises earlier in the morning than at any other time of the year, stretches out over a long afternoon, and continues to shine late into the evening. Even after sunset, bright stars shine in the sky on clear nights.
In summer, we spend more time outdoors than in other seasons, taking walks in the bright morning sunshine or golden afternoon sun, watching the colors of the sunset fill the sky, and gazing at the stars. It’s natural to be attracted to light.
The wonder of summer light may remind us of Jesus’ powerful words in John 8:12. Jesus says there, “I am the light of the world,” and promises that anyone who follows him will “never walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” By calling himself the light of the world, Jesus made it clear that he was the only one who could bring the guidance and life people needed in this fallen, dark world.
Dealing with all the darkness in this world can feel overwhelming at times. Between the bad news that is reported around the world every day and the personal conflicts that we have to deal with on a daily basis, it can seem like the darkness is stronger than the light. But Jesus’ words show that light is much stronger than darkness. Just as lighting a candle in a dark room indicates that light physically dispels darkness, Jesus points out in this passage that light also dispels darkness spiritually. Jesus is the source of all light, and the light He shines can overcome the darkness, no matter how difficult the situation.
The light of summer offers hope, considering that although darkness may seem powerful, both spiritually and physically, it always triumphs when light arrives. When we follow Jesus, His presence lights up our future. God’s revelation guides you to discover God’s best for you, and God’s promises encourage you that God has a hopeful future planned for you if you follow Him.
The light that Jesus offers is called “the light of life.” This phrase describes how your life is shaped by the presence of Jesus himself. When you realize that Jesus is always with you and connect with Him, you are no longer trapped in darkness. You can see the light of Jesus and follow God’s guidance for what is best for you.
Summer offers many opportunities to reflect on God’s hope while enjoying the light around us. As we watch the sunrise, we can offer a prayer of thanksgiving for God’s gift of a new day. Just as the golden rays of the sun cover everything you see outdoors on a summer afternoon, you can think about how God’s grace covers every situation in your life. At sunset in the evening, we can reflect on how we rest in God’s faithful care day and night, for God is the Father of heavenly light that always and surely appears. Gazing up at the stars on a clear summer night can leave us in awe, remembering the vast and powerful nature of God.
Enjoying the light of summer and allowing it to reflect on God’s hope can powerfully renew your perspective. It helps you understand that the God who created the physical light you see around you is the same God who provides spiritual light to your soul. Whenever you are feeling discouraged in this dark world, the light of summer will give you fresh encouragement. God’s light is powerful enough to overcome any difficulty.
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the wonderful light of summer. Look outside as much as possible and get outside in the summer light. Then let us see that light and be reminded of Jesus’ promise that He is the light of the world. The light of Jesus is stronger than any darkness in this world. God’s hope is greater than the challenges you face. Whenever you need encouragement, you can turn to Jesus and find the light of life again.
Let’s pray:
Dear Jesus, thank you for the wonderful light you bring to the world around me. The sunlight on a summer day and the stars shining on a clear night remind me of your kindness and strength. You say you are the light of the world and those who follow you will not walk in darkness. Help me to remember that promise every time I feel discouraged by the darkness of this fallen world. Remind me to look beyond my dark circumstances to the light of hope that you are always shining. Let the light of summer remind you again and again that your light is stronger than any darkness in this world. Fill my life with the peace and confidence that comes from walking in your light every day. Thank you, amen.
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Photo credit: ©Getty Images/NicoElNino
Whitney Hopler helps people discover the wonders of God and experience awe. She is the author of several books, including the nonfiction books Wake Up to Wonder and Wonder Through the Year: A Daily Devotional for Every Year, and the young adult novel Dream Factory. Whitney has served as an editor at major media organizations including Crosswalk.com, the national publication of the Salvation Army USA, and Dotdash.com (producing the popular Angels and Miracles channel). She currently leads communications efforts at George Mason University’s Center for Human Services Advancement. Connect with Whitney on her website www.whitneyhopler.com and on her Facebook author page.
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