For much of my life I chose to live in darkness. I did this because I liked my way of living and felt that I was better off doing things my way. I received what I wanted faster (which was usually only temporary satisfaction), didn't have to go against the pressure of friends, and felt like I was in control of my life. So basically, I chose to hide in the darkness, completely avoiding church, church friends and anything that had to do with Jesus. It got to the point where it seemed like I was in a cave without light, unhappy and making really bad decisions for myself.

Thankfully, God broke through and shone his light on me and the dark areas of my life. As I was exposed I wanted to hide further because of the shame and guilt that sin (darkness) brought on my shoulders. BUT. I couldnít resist the attractive qualities of the light (Jesus), peace, joy, happiness and security. Being in the light was scary initially because I was exposed for who I really was. I was exposed to the core but it was okay because I saw Jesus and he knew my darkness and loved me just the same.

Sooooo. God continues to expose the crappy dark spots in my life (which will be ongoing cause we always mess up and make mistakes right!) but I find "the breaks ins" a little easier because living in the light is truly the way life is meant to be.

1. When you see Jesus as the light that is breaking into your life, what is your response? Are you scared, excited, or would you rather not think about it?

Read the following passages:

John 14:6
Romans 8:32
Isaiah 40:11

2. After reading these verses does it change your response, knowing who Jesus is and what he things of you?

3. What areas of your life is the Lord trying to break into and shine his light on?

I encourage you to pray the following prayer:

Jesus, thank you for wanting to get rid of the darkness in my life. I know that ____________ (area of your life) is in darkness and I want to change. I can't do it on my own and I need you Jesus to shine your light in my life. Amen!

Lindsay Kunkel is an old fart from Binbrook, Ontario. She loves soccer,running and being outdoors. Favourite Christmas movie is ELF, if you have never seen it .... well......shame on you!