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Daily Devotion: Isaiah 9:2

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Isaiah 9:2    "The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined."

It is difficult, to say the least, to walk in a straight line while in total darkness.  My sixth grade elementary class went to Tuckaleechee Caverns in Townsend, Tn. I remember them taking us into this large opening and then turning the lights out. I literally could not see my hand in front of my face. I remember being afraid to even move while in that darkness.  I certainly was glad when they turned the lights back on. I am at the age now that I dread having to get up in the middle of the night and try to find my way in the darkness. There are a couple of "points of light" that I fix my eyes upon and then I can stumble my way back to bed.  One such point is a little blue light that shows a vacuum cleaner is charging. But in the darkness, that tiny blue light gives enough direction and hope that I can aim my steps toward it. I've had many bruised shins as a result of trying to walk in the darkness, both literally and spiritually..

"The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light."  In our next study of this chapter of Isaiah, we will see that light is none other than Jesus. But for today, I will use the words of Zachariah, the father of John the Baptist.  He said John would give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins "Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us,  (79)  To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace." (Luke 1:78-79) John was not that light, but was to give knowledge of that light that guides our feet into the way of peace. Jesus would say, "I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness." (John 12:46)  Yes, Jesus is the One Who lightens our darkness, gives hope in each valley, and shines into our hearts.  Joy fills our souls as that light drives away the darkness in our souls. I want to walk as close to my Lord as I possibly can. Please help me, O Lord.

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