Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life”. John 8:12
There is a substance found within plants that is one of the greatest miracles in all of creation. It is called chlorophyll, one of the key components that sustains life here on Earth. You may know it as the stuff within plants that makes them green. God created chlorophyll to be the pathway for the energy of sunlight to become incorporated into the substance of life. It allows plants to convert sunlight into the basic materials used by all living things. When sunlight shines on a plant, the chlorophyll within its leaves is activated and begins a complex chemical process called photosynthesis that forms sugars and gives off oxygen. How wonderful then is chlorophyll, for in every breath we take and with each bite of food we eat, it has provided us through its life sustaining qualities.
The sun is the light source of our planet, but Jesus is the light of life for all mankind. Many times in the Gospels, Jesus refers to Himself as the one who brings light into the world, who casts away darkness, and shines forth the light of God. His light is truth and righteousness, it exposes the hidden things of darkness. The light of Christ gives eternal life to all who dwell within its brightness and glory. Those who follow Him are called ‘children of the light’.
A substance is found within some people called faith. Faith is like the chlorophyll found in plants, because it enables us to soak up the light of God. It makes manifest the life of Jesus Christ within us. Producing for all the world, the products of His light. These are good works, love, righteousness, healing, and all forms of the personality of God. Faith is a miracle in the spiritual world, just as chlorophyll is a miracle in the created world. It is not of our doing, but the reaction of our hearts and minds to the revelation of God through His Word, His Spirit, and His Son. As He shines these upon our lives, many scurry off into the shadows away from this light. But some, walk out into the open, and there, receive the full brilliance of God’s light. When God’s love is mixed with our faith, we are changed and forgiven; healed and made new by God’s power and grace. Praise be to our God and to His Son, Jesus Christ.
Every plant requires light to survive. Most need it in abundance. As children of God, we should be careful not to shade ourselves from His light. Unlike plants, we have legs that can carry us far away from the light of God. We can entangle and cover ourselves with things that deflect His life from shining down upon us. This is harmful, and slows down the process of sharing His love abroad. Therefore, nurture your faith. Remain in His light, as He is in the light; polish your leaves; remove the dark shrouds; take in as much light, knowledge, and power as you are able and your light will become as a beacon for all who come near.