” Only in the darkness can you see the stars”
– Martin Luther King Jr
A few weeks ago I was on a bus through the Himalayan mountain ranges near Tibet into Nepal. My squad was able to see remarkable sightseeings!! I felt as though I was in a dream. I have always cherished nature for I feel closely connected to God when I am surrounded with his creation.
One day on our bumpy bus journey, I was conversing with my squad mentor Eric! Eric is awesome, so filled with wisdom and love for his Heavenly Father!! Eric and I were chatting about the season of life we are in right now, and specifically what God is teaching us in this present season. It was revealed to me that I am in a season of darkness.
Darkness? Yes darkness in the sense of uncertainty, unknown, and foreseen change. Picture this… you are in the deep wooded forest. Darkness surrounds you…suddenly you notice celestial beams of light shining down and reflecting on the grounds soil. The light brightens pockets of the woods, and gives clarity to you and your surroundings. It draws your attention and your mind is put at ease.
In Nepal, Saturday is their Sabbath, a day of rest. No school, no work, they call it a holiday! For the Christian community, it is a time to come together and fellowship. Nepal’s main religions are Hindu or Buddhist. There are gods and shrines at almost every corner. Despite the increasing persecution, the Christianity community continues to grow and thrive here in Nepal. AMAZING!
Yesterday we were given the opportunity to worship among the local Nepalis at a church service with our ministry hosts. Although the majority of service was in the native Nepali language, I was filled with the presence of the Holy Spirit, and it gave my soul peace. The peace that surpasses all understanding, the peace that even though I felt confused and “in the dark” during the service, beacons of light shown down.
I saw the beams of light that shown down on the Nepali people. The heart felt native worship songs, the life giving message illuminated the fathers love for everyone in the service. It was evident that he loves to worship with every tribe, every nation, in every language. What freedom to praise the God that transcends every cultural difference!! There is power in his name, his son Jesus defeated the power of darkness. THE VICTORY HAS BEEN WON!!
We are given a choice, will you look for the light in the darkness?
Our God is a God that loves walking with us in the darkness. He draws near to us, comforts us and sustains us in the dark. He gives us reassurance, hope and new life ,when fear and uncertainty come haunting, when we don’t understand, when we want to give up.. he is there… his light will shine forevermore!!
