Once was blind

When I
think of being blind, I see darkness. Pitch blackness.

Last week I
was teaching high school students about Paul’s conversion in the book of
Acts. Paul was blinded by a bright light from heaven. I’m not sure why, but I
always pictured that light causing him to see blackness.

Driving
down to work last week, I was instantly blinded by the sun’s rays. I couldn’t
see anything whatsoever. The light was so incredibly brilliant that it physically hurt. I wasn’t
blinded by the darkness, but by the light. In the immediate aftermath of the
sun’s radiance, I saw black spots.

I think
this must be similar to God’s holiness. When we are in the presence of God,
truly basking in his holiness, we cannot help but see the darkness inside of
us. When we are confronted by holiness, we are overwhelmed by our sinfulness.
In that moment driving down the road, I was overcome with God’s mercy. He could
confront us with all of our sin at once, but he is gracious and deals with our
sin in small chunks as we can handle it. Ultimately, he wants to purify us so that
we can boldly stand in his presence.

So, as I
prepare to drive to the office this morning, I am also preparing my spirit. I’m
asking God to purify me from all unrighteousness so that his light might shine
through me.

Happy
Monday!