Second Friday in Lent
Darkness shrouds the skies… the setting sun sends out its last bright rays of the day as it battles against the clouds moving in from the north. Night will fall and a storm will break soon.
As Lent moves gradually towards the Good Friday crisis, the New Testament records the words and actions of Jesus and also those of his followers and opponents. The drama unfolds as the purpose of Jesus becomes clearer. Jesus is going to Jerusalem. Excitement and fear combine in the hearts of the Twelve. Betrayal grows from the seeds of discontent in the heart of Judas.
Darkness is growing.
Did Jesus have a sharper appreciation of every sunrise, sunset, and star as He knew his days grew shorter? How did He feel as the shadow of Death spread its wings over the world?
As we think about the utterly human dread that grapples with promised obedience of Jesus, how can we face the uncertainties and fears that sometimes grip our hearts as we try to live out what we believe? Other may not understand us, may mock our faith, or may challenge us outright.
Darkness seeks to extinguish the Light.
Will we hide the Light within us, or hold it high in defiance of the Night?
Use this photograph and meditation to reflect on your understanding of the growing conflict caused by the life of Jesus. How will this impact your willingness to walk with Jesus towards the Cross? To follow the Light as it invades the Darkness?
Pray for Christians facing opposition and persecution. Pray for those who face difficulty and darkness in their lives. Pray for those, like Judas, who may be tempted to deny Christ or betray Him. Pray that our faith will be strengthened through the hope that comes from the Light that leads to life.
John 8:12 (NLT)
Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”
Look, See, Pray 