“Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” John 8:12
Recently, I was sure I was guided in a ministry speaking opportunity to promote unity between denominations and races. The people making the decision did not accept my proposal. I was somewhat puzzled. Did I miss hear the Lord (my hearing is not perfect) or was I out of His timing? It seemed like the right thing. I had spent a lot of time praying over it. What happened here?
As I prayed over this disappointment I tried to see if I missed the Lord. The thoughts have developed as follows. Since Jesus is the light of the world I have the assurance that when I follow Him as best I can I will be walking in His light. The path may be illuminated just a little ahead of me rather than a fully lighted path. We have examples in the Bible of moving ahead, even when they didn’t see much, or when what they did see was frightening (the children of Israel crossing the Red Sea for one example).
In addition to the lighted path we walk down, as believers, have the light inside of us in the form of the Holy Spirit. Our responsibility is to pray for guidance and then keep on walking in the light we have and more light will come.
With in two weeks I was offered a similar opportunity to minister inter-racially in another church. (completely unsolicited). This was what I was seeking but in a different venue. The Lord opened the door with no effort on my part. Writing my proposal, which was not accepted, helped me to clarify exactly what I felt called to do, as well as think through how it could be accomplished I take comfort in I Cor. 15:58 “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.”
My desire is to reach a place of maturity where I am more steady and immovable and disappointments do not throw me off base. That would be a steady walk in the light I have and look not to the right or the left but straight ahead knowing the light is there but my vision and hearing may need tuning.
Prayer: Lord help me to reach a new level of trust in your workings as I seek to be faithful to the work you have called me to do.
© Peggy Park
