Out of Darkness

John 12:46 -"I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness."     It is 'clean-up time' for those of us coming from under the effects of Hurricane Irma. When the storm started its trek coming toward the Metro-Atlanta area on Monday afternoon many of us were buckled in and ready to ride out the weather. Most had adequate food, water and other supplies to carry them through road and store closures. As the rains poured and the winds howled, my 'Old Ship of Zion" held fast - though the lights flickered a few times and my digital clocks blinked in a new rhythm - I had no major or even minor issues. If it were not for the pounding of the rain on my house, I would hardly know that there was anything going on outside. I watched television, talked on the phone, surfed the internet, cooked , cleaned and read. I was truly blessed because many within walking distance lost power and remained in the dark for 72 hours. Their bills were paid, their home wiring was not faulty; yet they remained in the dark. Transformers, circuits, power lines and other electrical conduits commandeered control of their lives.
       Life can give such blows to us also. We can have our ducks all in a row; plans adequately made; provisions stock piled and yet things outside of our control can take over and change the flow of our existence. As darkness consumed their houses, many lost food supplies as frozen items thawed and had to be discarded. Some things that we believed were properly preserved and that would be with us for awhile might be lost within a short period of time due to circumstances of darkness that creeps upon us.
      Jesus reminds us that he is the true light and that belief in him removes the uncertainty of darkness. As we continue to help others who have been bombarded by the savageness of the storm or the mere inconvenience of the darkness; let us be thankful that we have a light that never diminishes....never goes out.... and puts darkness to flight. Jesus is our light and our salvation - whom then shall we fear.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a victoriously great day. Be blessed. Dr. JoAnn