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Children of Light

Devotional 2.15.23

Dear Faith Family, 

For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord.  Walk as children of light (for the fruit of the light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord, (Ephesians 5:8-11). 

My Valentine adorns the rocking chair next to mine as we enjoy the view from the humble cabin perched on the side of an eastern Tennessee mountain.  Periodically I scan the mountainous landscape in hopes of capturing movement (You know, like an eastern “thunder chicken”!  Ok, a turkey!).  Only the occasional flicker, chickadee, or the swaying of a leafless tree branch. 

And just like that, out of nowhere and yet right there in front of me the whole time, I see it!  Movement?  No. At least not that I can discern.  Not thirty yards in front of me is yet another one of God’s sermon sacs, hidden in plain view!  Trees?  They are plentiful in my field of view.  But one tree in particular captures my attention. 

All its branches are on one side of the tree.  The other side of the tree is barren, no limbs!  On the one side all the limbs are straining with life toward the light.  The other side of the tree is shrouded in darkness.  Other trees are blocking the light. 

God’s Word calls us to walk as children of light.  Here’s my question: Are there areas of our lives that are shrouded in darkness?  Ok, maybe question(s) plural:  Are other trees blocking the light?  Maybe some habits hidden in the recesses of our lives?  Maybe some people, relationships, that are keeping the light from getting through?  Maybe a grudge is casting a shadow and leaving us in the dark?  Maybe unforgiveness is shielding us from a ray of sunshine? 

What’s that I hear?  Is that a chainsaw idling nearby?  Is it time to cut down a few trees?  Let’s focus on one.  As you consider the Word of God, what is it that the Holy Spirit is convicting your heart to remove from your life?  Keep in mind that He doesn’t stand by at a distance.  Instead, He promises His presence with us: His grace, His strength, His help. 

Can’t wait to see the branches on the other side, 
Pastor Karl