Rhythm of Darkness

RHYTHM OF DARKNESS

All the darkness in the world cannot extinguish the light of a single candle. – Francis of Assisi

As we enter into the season of Fall, and the month of October, darkness becomes more of a factor in each one of our lives.  Physically and Spiritually. The contrast of Light and Darkness has intrigued and triggered people’s curiosity since the beginning of time.  Religious Preachers, Philosophic thinkers, Spiritual Mystics, Astro-Geo-Bio-Nuclear Physicists, and just everyday folks like you and me have been captivated by this mystery, entertained by its sinful pull, and probably I could say for most of us, touched by its evil and its pain.

 

the Bible contrasts Light verses Darkness in various ways:

Good vs. Evil.

Protection vs. Danger

Revelation vs. Ignorance

Tranformation vs. Stuck

Victory over Power

 

It is scientifically and uniformly believed that :  Darkness travels at the speed of light. Which means that darkness does not exist by itself as a unique physical entity, but is simply THE ABSCENCE OF LIGHT.  Any time you block out most of the light – for instance, by cupping your hands together – you get darkness

 

Ammar Safwi, a writer for Science ABC, remarks, “We cannot create darkness, as darkness has no source. In fact, the only reason why humans can identify darkness is that light exists. Scientifically, darkness is not an independent physical entity. It is mere emptiness.” 

 

The telling of Creation in Genesis 1, is the explanation of who was the driving force behind the expansion of the universe.  It was God Himself through the power of the Holy Spirit, who you could say is the executive arm of the Holy Trinity.  Now there is a lot of Theology packed away here, that we don’t have time to explain.

 

But When God created light, darkness became a part of the created order…Meaning Darkness is and will always be a part of the human’s experience and existence here on this earth.

 

Which now brings me to the purpose behind my message today:

 

What does Darkness Remind us?

 

#1.  It reminds us of our need for Rest.  (Genesis 2:2-3; Mark 2:27)

The natural rhythm of day and night, morning and evening, established by God's creation pattern and our biological clock (circadian rhythm), guides our bodies in a cycle of rest and activity. God, in His wisdom, ordained rest, including Sabbath observance, as essential for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Disruptions to this rhythm, whether through lifestyle choices or external factors, can have negative effects on our health. By aligning with God's designed rhythm of rest and activity, we can promote healing, maintain bodily systems, and experience overall wellness. Embracing rest as a gift from God allows us to care for ourselves holistically and honor the divine order of our bodies.

 

#2. It reminds us God is Faithful in every season.(Genesis 1:14-15; Genesis 8:22)

 

The crickets felt it was their duty to warn everybody that summertime cannot last forever. Even on the most beautiful days in the whole year—the days when summer is changing into autumn—the crickets spread the rumor of sadness and change.  – E. B. White — Charlotte’s Web (HarperCollins, 1952).

 

Seasons, whether meteorological, astronomical, or environmental, establish natural cycles that bring about significant changes to ecosystems and agriculture. These changes serve as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the concept of timing in our lives. Understanding that there is a season for everything, including testing, waiting, harvest, pain, joy, and love, can provide encouragement during different phases of life. Just as nature transitions through various seasons, we are encouraged to remain steadfast and not grow weary, trusting that in due season, we will reap a harvest. The changing seasons symbolize new beginnings, growth, and transformation, illustrating God's ability to bring about renewal and fulfillment even in the darkest moments. Embracing the lessons of seasons, we are prompted to plant seeds of faith and hope, preparing for the promise of a bountiful harvest ahead.

 

#3. It reminds us that God NEVER LEAVES us. (Psalm 27:1;  Ps. 91:1-2; Gen. 28:15; Micah 7:8

 

There are moments in our lives when the darkness is so profound and complex that it challenges our faith that God is near.  In moments of deep darkness and despair, where faith is challenged and questions of God's presence arise, many biblical figures, from Joseph and Job to Jesus, faced intense trials. These individuals experienced betrayal, persecution, physical anguish, loss, and feelings of abandonment, yet they ultimately found redemption and restoration through their faith and perseverance. Their stories serve as powerful reminders that even in the darkest moments, God's light can shine through, offering hope, transformation, and eventual triumph. What may seem like a season of despair and hopelessness can lead to a divine purpose, demonstrating God's faithfulness in bringing about restoration, revival, and victory in the midst of adversity. Just as these individuals found solace and renewal in their darkest hours, we are encouraged to hold on to faith and trust that God's light will guide us through every shadowed valley we encounter.

 

#4. It reminds us that Darkness will not last forever. (Rev. 22:5; 2 Cor. 4:17-18)

 

Hope and promise are found in the biblical narrative, from Genesis to Revelation. Revelation speaks of the eternal kingdom, the New Heavens and Earth, where darkness will be no more, offering a vision of a utopia that fulfills our deepest longings. It reminds us that while we may face temporary afflictions and suffering in this world, a greater and more glorious reality awaits us. The darkness we encounter in this life serves to point us towards the day when it will be no more, emphasizing that darkness is temporary, limited, and will not endure forever. Our existence transcends the darkness, and one day it will no longer be a part of our human experience. This message inspires hope and encourages us to look forward to the future where light will overcome all darkness, ushering in a new and eternal dawn.…

 

So in conclusion, you could say that you were not created for darkness, but the darkness is created for you.  Embrace the rhythms of darkness in your life with hope.

 

REST in the darkness. — (Gen. 2:2-3; Ps. 23:1-6)

PREPARE for the darkness (Is. 43:19; Gal. 6:9; Ezek. 34:26; Ps. 1:1-3)

SEEK GOD in the darkness. (Micah 7:8; Ps. 139:12; Isa. 41:10)

LOOK BEYOND the darkness (Rev. 21:5; 22:5; Joel 2:25; Job 8:7; 2 Cor. 5:17)