Here is a devotion to start your day!
A spoken version of this devotion is available through the Still, Here audio reflections podcast.
Scripture: 1 John 1:5–9
… if we walk in the light as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son, cleanses us from all sin.
Reflection
John, the disciple of Jesus, does not say that God has light; he says that God is light. In Him there is no darkness at all—no hidden angles, no mixed motives, no shadowy corners. This sounds beautiful until we realize what it means for us: to walk with the God of light is to live honestly.
We often confuse confession with groveling. We think God wants us to rehearse our failures until we feel small enough to be acceptable to Him. But John paints a different picture. Walking in the light is not about parading our shame; it’s about refusing to hide. It is trusting that when the light exposes us, it will not destroy us—it will cleanse us.
But John has more to say.
“If we confess our sins,” John writes, “he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” Confession is our part—naming what is true. Forgiveness and cleansing are God’s part—doing what we cannot.
Lent is a season to step out of the shadows and into the steady beam of God’s love. Not to be humiliated, but to be healed. Love in the wilderness does not avert its eyes from our sin. It looks at us fully and still says, “You are mine.”
Today, let light be a gift, not a threat.
A Prayer of Presence
God of light,
Draw me out of hiding. Shine gently but clearly on the places I would rather conceal. Teach me to trust that Your light does not shame me but forgives, cleanses, and restores me in love. – Amen
Practice for Today
Ask the Spirit to bring to mind one attitude, habit, or pattern you have been minimizing or excusing. Name it plainly before God. If appropriate and safe, confess it to a trusted friend or mentor as well.
Consider This...
What am I most afraid God will see if I step fully into His light—and what do I fear that would mean about me?
Carry This Prayer With You Today
Breathe in: Your light heals…
Breathe out: … what it reveals
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