INTO THE LIGHT (Back to Sunday School Series)

"Never miss a sunset!," is a catchy motto that becomes my regular practice when I vacation near the shore. 

Regardless of what storms blow in throughout the day, all is well when my feet finally sink into the cool sand, and I behold the sun melting into Lake Michigan as it bids us all "good night."

It's so breathtaking that I keep taking pictures and sending them home to share. "Isn't it beautiful?" 

"Yes," come the replies. But it's not the same as being there. 

The faces of the people standing next to me are living proof. Their harsh features have softened; their skin glows. Like me, they're merely standing on the shore, reflecting what God's doing, yet somehow, it's changed us for the better.

So I send another picture, "You should be here!" 

"Soon," they respond. "Next time. Next summer." I understand. Some years are too hard to make the trip. 

But sunsets are for everyone, no matter where we are.

We're meant to live in the Light. We're born to witness God's glory.

Right outside your window, the sun captures a picture of God's brilliance and sends it to you every night. It reminds you that the sunset is indeed spectacular, but it can't compare to its Creator, Jesus, the Light of the World.

The sunset draws us out of darkness and leads us into His Light, bowing to Jesus' Words from John 12:

"I have come into the world as a Light so that no one who believes in Me should stay in darkness." (v46)

Jesus calls through the sunset. Step out of the shadows; come walk with Me.

"Walk while you have the Light.." He says. (v35b)

Keep walking. Draw closer. Press your feet deep into God's path. 

Remember His faithfulness as the sun sets. Before it rises, trust Him with your tomorrows, too. 

"Put your trust in the Light while you have it." (v36a)

Because His Light changes you. Sharp words soften; your soul begins to glow. You merely stand on the shore of God's grace, reflecting what He's doing.

Most nights, this renders you speechless.

Besides, how do you describe the Light of the World? He's a little like a sunset; you have to be there.

But go ahead, take a picture, and send it home.

One day, they'll be there, too.

Jesus and sunsets are for everyone.