Mike’s Musings …
Light Deprivation
There is a condition that is quite common among many this time of year. It is known as “light deprivation syndrome” and is the result of diminished sunlight throughout the day. There is even a phrase in one of our hymns that relates to this phenomenon: “When days are dark and dreary.” Depression is a part of this malady, and some patients require medical attention to combat its results. The only adequate cure is increased sunlight as artificial light does little if anything to eliminate the problem. Medically, there are vitamins and nutrients from sunlight that cannot be gained through artificial or manmade means. Indeed, God’s creation is impossible to duplicate in all its wonders!
More serious is the condition of “light deprivation” when it comes to God’s word! John 1:1 – 5 speaks of the Word and that within Him was the light of men. Verse five says, “And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.” One wonders why this was the case. This Word made flesh, named Jesus the Christ. explained, “And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.” (John 3:19) This is the ultimate deprivation: a willing neglect of the light of the world, the very light that can save men’s souls!
What a marvelous comfort for the soul to read Jesus’ words, “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.” (John 8:12) Have you ever known someone literally blind? They never know light as we know light. They are forever in darkness as far as this world’s light is concerned. But I’ve known several Christians, who though they could not see with their eyes, could see with their heart! Their souls were/are filled with the light of the gospel and their attitudes prove it with the absolute absence of depression, and the abundant presence of joy! They have absolutely no complaints of any kind or anyone! They are enlightened with such glorious light that you can’t help but be illuminated by being with them!
I muse on why any soul would willingly allow themselves to be “light deprived” spiritually! I can think of no reason for it: it is self-inflicted and sinful! I muse on the beauty seen in the light of Jesus, and how much clearer life is when illuminated by His light. Perhaps, friends, this is one of the reasons for letting OUR lights shine! The source of our light is Christ, and if Christ doesn’t radiate in our lives, what light does? Oh, may we let His light shine! Too many are deprived of this much-needed light!