Seeing the Light

This coming Wednesday, 20th March, sees 2019’s Vernal (or Spring) Equinox, when the hours of light equal those of darkness. From then until Midsummer Day, we in the northern hemisphere benefit from gradually increasing daylight hours. Most of us will be appreciating the longer days as Spring brings its own optimistic signs of earth’s renewal, of new life and resurrection.

I penned these thoughts recently on a perfect Spring morning sitting beside Hill Hook Pool, with the morning sunshine dispersing the early mist and casting a low, clear light on a scene of tranquillity and beauty. I was reminded of the observation made by the Biblical philosopher, King Solomon, that ‘Truly the light is sweet, and a pleasant thing it is for the eyes to behold the sun.’

The theme of Light has a metaphorical sense too. We talk about shedding light on a subject, or the effect of a radiant personality lighting up a room or brightening our day. Our minds can receive enlightenment from a conversation, from reading, listening to a programme, from thoughtful contemplation or from an uplifting experience. A ‘ray of light’ may bring hope in solving a problem, or an expert might be described as a ‘leading light’ in a particular field.

Likewise in the spiritual realm. Pure light is an expression of the divine. For the Christian, the saying of the Lord Jesus that he is the Light of the World can have real significance. His presence, his love and care for us all can bring a transforming illumination to our souls, adding an altogether higher dimension to our living. Even the downside of life, which we all face at some time or other, can be seen in a different light if Jesus is our companion and guide. He does truly understand, since he has been in the dark places himself.

Ultimately we are invited to an even greater light beyond our present knowing. The promised future is described in Revelation, that Biblical book of sign and vision, as the New Jerusalem which comes down from heaven. No night will be known then, because the supreme glory of God is its perfect light.

May our enjoyment of this Spring season raise our sights and encourage us to seek for the fuller light which is offered to all. On our journey we can enlighten the mind by dipping into a Bible, which the Psalmist assures us can be a light to our path, illuminating the direction of our lives.