ARE YOU WILLING TO FOLLOW?

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 Can you imagine? Here is Jesus, the carpenter, boldly proclaiming to the people that He is the light of the world. He unequivocally declares that anyone who will follow him will never walk in darkness. His voice does not tremble. His words are not muttered. He simply declares with all power and authority that darkness is now defunct.

To the masses, this posed a serious problem. Who was this man that spoke with such authority? Sure he healed people and taught in the synagogues but what gave him the right to declare that he was the light of the world? For some in the audience, the message simply went over their heads. For others, it seemed like he unjustly placed himself on a pedestal. To the believer, however, the message was loud and clear: darkness, and all it stood for, was a defeated foe.

The believer discerns that darkness comes in the form of job loss, sickness or maybe even death of a loved one. The believer understands that darkness materializes in the form of depression, debilitating fear or anxiety attacks. The believer knows first-hand that darkness is birthed by life’s valley experiences, pit persecutions and fiery furnace moments. Believers know all about darkness; but they also know about living in the light.

Regardless of the kind of darkness that materializes in your life, Jesus promises that believers—those who follow him—will never walk in darkness. Instead, we will have light in the form of peace, healing, guidance and love. We will have our answer and light of the world—Jesus—walks with and edifies us during the most hopeless times in our lives. Never again will we be subject to live a life void of faith and hope.

Similar to Judaism which teaches that God seeks to bestow kindness and love unto His people, Jesus declares that those who believe in and follow him will experience his love and kindness in a new and profound way. His followers will experience this love through his provision of guidance, hope, and strength. The psalmist proclaims, “Oh, how great is your goodness, which you have laid up for those who trust in you.” Trusting God is an inner expression of our faith and hope in God. Following Jesus, the Lamb of God, is an extension of that faith and trust. When believers understand that the dark places in our lives are no match for the light of the world, we can begin to receive and experience the effects of Jesus’ light in powerful ways. Healing of old wounds, joy in the midst of turmoil, peace of mind and grace are Jesus’ to share with those who follow him—with those who love him. Will you follow Jesus today? If you do, darkness will never triumph over you again.

©2010-2013 Minister Claretta Taylor Pam, Global Ecumenical Ministries Inc. and Universal Life Church Monastery of Massachusetts. All Rights Reserved