The conversation had been spirited and lively with the meeting participants engaging well. With the welcoming exchanges completed, the leader changed the tone of the conversation when he said, “This floor has low energy.”
The conference room had been reserved on a different floor since our usual meeting space was being used by another group. The walls in this room were a light neutral tone with furnishings that almost blended in entirely. The overcast skies outside further enhanced the bleakness. It felt like everyone sensed the dreary weather even through the walls.
Since I had visited the space before reserving the meeting room, I had already noted the oppressive feeling and surmised the root cause. “There are fewer windows here,” I said.
Everyone began to look around with puzzled expressions, seemingly surprised at my observation. This prompted me to explain further. “On our floor, the outside walls of the conference room are glass. And the exterior windows here are smaller than the ones in our usual meeting room.” Nods of affirmation followed, and the next topic of discussion quickly arose. The meeting continued and concluded without further thought about the oppressive atmosphere. But the moment lingered in my thoughts for several days.
Curious about the effect of light to our bodies, I later read, “From promoting the growth of plants and crops to keeping people warm, sunlight is essential for life. In addition, many people enjoy the feeling of sunlight, and there is increasing evidence to support its many health benefits. … Sunlight is essential for human health and well-being. The health benefits of sunlight include generating the production of vitamin D, supporting bone health, lowering blood pressure, preventing disease, and promoting good mental health.” *
Indeed, the sense of low energy felt in the room that day was palpable. There was a physical lack of sunlight pouring into the room. The sense of heaviness, if not oppression was copious. Then I began to ponder the lack of light to our souls, especially when I recalled these words:
When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.” John 8:12 niv
Jesus is the light of life. His presence can be sensed and felt in a real way just as we felt the lack of light in that meeting room. As we welcome Jesus and His teachings to guide our thoughts and actions, the light of life begins to break through the heavy darkness, perhaps a low energy we sometimes feel.
While the enemy of our souls would attempt to cast Jesus and His teachings in a dark light, deceiving some into thinking His ways are archaic or confining, the truth is, following His ways allows light to pour into us with life giving satisfaction. Without His light, we walk in darkness. Without His light, the oppressive heaviness is felt. Yet when we surrender to His ways, choosing as He said to take up our cross and follow Him daily, His light begins to shine around us, in us, and through us. The warmth of His love and the pleasure of His presence changes the atmosphere. The heaviness of darkness dissipates and life flows.
the people living in darkness
have seen a great light;
on those living in the land of the shadow of death
a light has dawned.” Matthew 4:16 NIV
So, an opportunity lies before us. Who will walk in the light of His ways?
“Come, follow me,” Jesus said … Mark 1:17 NIV
Reflective Resource:
The resource below is recommended for your continued encouragement.
Have you ever stubbed your toe when moving about in the middle of the night? And why did it happen? Because it was dark and you could not see, right? We simply cannot see everything when it is dark. In like manner, many simply cannot see how to navigate in life when it is dark. Yet when someone chooses right actions or attitudes, it’s like turning on a light. Then others can see more clearly. Jesus said it like this:
You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16 niv 1984
Light in the Darkness is a six-week daily devotional written for the hungry, yet hurried Christ follower. Each daily reading includes Scripture, thoughts and reflective question(s) intentionally designed to be quick reads so that the greatest time can be spent considering personal application. This study focuses on the teaching of Jesus as shared in Matthew 5, including His words of the Beatitudes, salt, light, fulfillment of the law, murder, divorce and so much more. These ancient words surprisingly address many current day issues with challenging, yet non-condemning truths. Simply reading, pondering and personally applying these timeless truths can be transformative, enlightening and soul satisfying as together we begin to influence the world around us as we become Light in the Darkness.
Available on Amazon (search Tanja Dufrene). Your purchase helps us at Warrior of the Word continue producing uplifting content. And Amazon reviews are welcomed.
Many blessings,
Blessings on all who reverence and trust the Lord –
on all who obey him!
Psalm 128:1 tlb
* Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BD, FAANP. 3November2020. MedicalNewsToday. “What to know about the health benefits of sunlight.” https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/benefits-of-sunlight. Retrieved: 09December2022.
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