A Day-by-day devotional

January 10, 2023

Deep Into the Gorge

Chronological One Year Bible Reading Plan: Job 29-31

Scripture of the Day: 1 John 1: 5-10

In the beautiful Bavarian town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen in Germany lies, apart from the gorgeous alps, a fascinating gorge. The steep rocky walls, accompanied by a running stream provide a unique natural spectacle. As you course through the impressive rock tunnels, there are parts that are pitch black. In all the times I had been there, I was always with a group. As we course through the tunnel in a train of people, the one leading the way would illuminate the path with a flashlight.

In life, we pass through several deep gorges with tunnels where no sunlight shines through. Unless we have a light that accompanies us, or a light within us, we will never be able to course through the gorge without stumbling, tripping, or even falling.

Gratefully, we have a light that shines our path. He is the Son of God, the light of the world who promised that those who follow Him will never be in darkness, but will have the light of life (John 8:12). He also asked those who have His light to shine it before others (Matthew 5:16).

If we travel through an unlit gorge abounding in the carnal ways of the world, it is just either we go through it in a breeze, unscathed and untouched, or we stumble and fall. That all depends on whether we are or we are not carrying a light with us. If we are traveling with the light capable of illuminating the pathway, we will see where we are headed and know where the bumpy ground lies. However, if we are without light, we will not be able to see the way, ending up in a stumble, which could eventually lead to a fall.

If we are carrying the torch (Psalm 76:4), we should not fear the darkness. Our path will always be lighted. When the way is lit, it is less likely for us to stumble and fall.

Jesus is our Light. If we follow Him, we also have His light radiating from within us. We should let it shine for others as His is shone upon us, never in any way dwindling away.

Reflection: You have a light. Are you letting it shine for others to see? It is always better to light one little candle than to course through the darkness unaware of the dangers along the way as we walk blindly.

Prayer: Jesus, thank you that you are my Light. You always shine. I ask you to help me to also shine my light so that others can see your work within me. Amen.