A message from Pastor Burchett, Part A:

You notice the shadows only when the sun is out.

The shadows of life fill us with uncertainty, fear, discouragement, a downcast heart. Every shadow reminds us there is light.

When “the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep,” (Gen 1:2) “God said, ‘Let there be light’ and there was light” (Gen 1:3).

David sang, “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1)  Read Psalm 27 and see how King David gained light and strength.  The Psalm gives clues about his life situation at the time he wrote it.  Dark shadows.

Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12)  “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:5)  “I have come into the world as light, so that whoever believes in me may not remain in darkness.” (John12:46)  “Believes” – the key word.  Faith is our part.

“Walk in the light as he is in the light.” (I John 1:7)

Seeing shadows? Look to the light, the light of the world, Jesus our Savior.

“Turn your eyes upon Jesus. Look full in his wonderful face and the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of his glory and grace.”       (Helen H. Lemmel)

Read Revelation 1:9-6 and chapters 4 and 5 for help in turning to the light.

===========================================================================

A message from Pastor Burchett, Part B:

You notice the shadows only when the sun is out.

Some sit at desks – great writers. Some stand at podiums before many cameras and large crowds – great orators.

What of Paul the apostle, a scholar in his day? Falsely accused, beaten and imprisoned in chains. (Acts 16:16-24)  Pain, stench, thirst, hunger, almost immobile.  Darkness in the dungeon at midnight.

Suddenly a great earthquake. Prison foundation shaken.  All doors flew open.  All chains fell off.  Imagine God’s intricate utilization of this force!  Immediately – job done.

Paul and Silas cared for by the jailer who imprisoned them. See the rest of Acts 16.

What was Paul doing at midnight in his pain, thirst, hunger, cramped position and wretched surroundings? “Praying and singing hymns to God.” (Acts 16:25)

In the shadows? Do as he did.