The Radiance Of God's Goodness

A traveling jeweler was asked why he showcases his diamonds on black velvet. Why not on a silver platter, or on a glistening golden silk scarf? He shared that the beauty of each diamond is seen best with stark darkness behind it. “It’s the contrast that awakens the eye to its flawlessness. The black doesn’t reflect light, it absorbs it, but each cut and each angle of the diamonds receives the light, and that light bounces and refracts throughout the diamond illuminating it and bringing it to life.”

We are watching great evil and violence spread throughout the world. The crimes against children are staggering to our consciences. Likewise, the crimes against people for things they can’t change, their nationality, their race, their skin color, or their family name. But juxtaposed against this darkness is the Gospel of Christ’s great redeeming love, that is no respecter of persons; loving all equally and offering salvation to each and everyone, “Not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9).

Just like post 9-11, churches throughout the world are full again. People have no faith that the answers they seek are found in politicians or governments. They know the Answer is greater than any human. God sees each seeking heart and is gently lifting chins towards Him and lives are being changed.

Who would’ve thought that such evil days would bring so many to Christ, but it is. “The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5).

May we be Torch Bearers, radiating the Life-Giving message of Christ in these dark days, pointing people to the Hope and Light found in Christ alone. People are longing for a reason to be hopeful, and they are listening.

(Devotional by Cheryl Hall-Laos)