The radiating warmth of the sun lured me to the window. Deceptive warmth, since the temperature had plunged past freezing and a thick layer of snow blanketed the lawn. The white flakes sparkled beneath the sun’s rays.
As my eyes adjusted to the glare, I noticed long shadows stretching across the ground. Barren trees blocked the light from the sun, casting shadows that mirrored their shape. A breeze rustled the branches and shifted the patches of darkness.
I observed the contrast of light and shadows. It dawned on me that shadows only occur in the presence of light. I may be overshadowed by darkness, but the light still exists.
I was reminded of a season in my life when a diagnosis of ovarian cancer cast shadows of doubt, fear, and anxiety across my horizon, obscuring the light of Christ. I had more questions than answers. Would I survive? What side effects of chemotherapy would I experience? What about my future?
During my course of surgery and chemotherapy, slivers of light pierced the darkness. I recalled God’s goodness and faithfulness in times past. Nuggets of truth from His word dissipated the shadows, shining the light of hope, faith, and peace into my heart.
The circumstances of my life may have changed, but God never changes. He was still the light that shines in the darkness. Even though for a season I encountered shadows, thankfully they were fleeting. His light penetrated the darkness and offered me the hope and courage I needed to face the challenges of cancer and its treatment.
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. (James 1:17 NIV)
Read Psalm 27:1-5
This devotion first appeared in the July/August issue of The Upper Room.
It is so wonderful to know that God will always bring the light that breaks through the shadows if we trust and wait patiently for Him. Thank you for that reminder!
I, too, am grateful for his light. Thank you, Hally!