Illuminating the Path of Love
In a world that seems cloaked in shadows of uncertainty, I’m reminded of the words once chosen by George VI during a time of global turmoil. In the heart of his Christmas message, drawn from a poem titled "God Knows" by Minnie Louise Haskins, he offered an invitation and a reassurance: "Go out into the darkness and put your hand into the hand of God. That shall be to you better than light and safer than a known way." This call to steadfast faith and unyielding trust in God resonates deeply as we navigate our own challenges.
At times, the future unfolds like a path shrouded in fog, where each step forward seems to deepen the mystery of what lies ahead. Yet, in these moments, we find a beacon in the Word of God, a steadfast guide that illuminates our way. Consider Psalm 119:105, "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path." Here, the psalmist does not promise a brightly lit road devoid of obstacles, but rather a lamp — just enough light for the path directly at our feet, ensuring that we can take the next step with confidence.
In the face of uncertainty, it's natural to seek clarity and assurance, to wish for a detailed map of our life’s journey. Yet, the scriptures encourage us to embrace a different perspective. Psalm 27, for instance, offers a powerful declaration of trust: "The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?" Here, David doesn’t deny the presence of darkness; rather, he proclaims that the presence of God is a greater reality that dispels fear.
Moving through the New Testament, in 2 Peter 1:5-9, we are reminded of the virtues to cultivate along this dimly lit journey: goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, mutual affection, and love. These qualities are not just lofty ideals; they are practical tools that cleanse and prepare us for every twist and turn in our path.
However, the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 13:12 gives us a deep insight into our human limitations: "Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known." In Paul’s time, mirrors were not like our modern-day versions. They were made of polished metal and offered only a blurred reflection, reminding us that our understanding of life and God’s kingdom is partial, imperfect. But there is beauty in this imperfection because it teaches us to live by faith and not by sight, focusing on love as the purest reflection of God’s will.
In the book of Revelation, the vision of a new Jerusalem, where "God’s dwelling place is now among the people," illuminates an ultimate hope where there is no need for sun or moon, for the glory of God gives light, and the Lamb is its lamp (Revelation 21:22-25). In this city, the gates never shut, for there is no night and nothing impure can enter. Here, we find a metaphor for the kingdom of God — open, illuminated, pure — a stark contrast to the often gated and guarded experiences of our earthly cities.
This vision encourages us to "trust God," to live now in the light of His future kingdom. It reminds us that though we navigate a world with closed doors and uncertain paths, our focus on love and purity in our actions opens up divine possibilities, turning the unknown into avenues of hope and faith.
Therefore, let us walk this shadowed path with the lamp of God’s Word guiding our feet. Let’s embody the virtues that Peter enumerates, making them the very fabric of our daily lives. And in our moments of blurred vision and doubt, let’s hold fast to love — the greatest of all virtues — for in doing so, we reflect the pure light of Christ, who shows us the way not just to see, but to be the very image of God in a world that yearns for His light.
So, go out into the darkness, not with trepidation but with courage, putting your hand into God’s hand. Let your heart be still and know that His light is indeed better than any known way and safer than any path you might have foreseen. In this faith, in this love, and in this light, let us rest and be guided, until we reach the dawn of His glorious day.
