As an artist, the contrast of light and dark are an important part of an overall design to any given piece.  Nothing can be all light nor can it be all dark if we are interested in capturing an audience or the eye of someone examining our work.  The concept of light and dark is a common theme in spirituality as well.   In Christianity we ascertain that Jesus is the Light of the world (John 1:6-10; 1 John 1:5).   We are commanded to be light to the world, not hiding our faith (Matt. 5:14-16).  But perhaps one of the most intriguing verses for me is found in Psalm 139.  Here David is reflecting on the omnipotence and omniscience of God declaring that there is no place to hide from God, stating that he cannot even hide in the darkness because with God, there is no darkness (Ps. 139:11-12).

I saw this one morning when I was walking in the pre-dawn hours and it struck me that I was observing what the Psalmist was saying.  I also saw in this moment what it means to be a light in a dark and dying world.  Our character, our witness and our being should be as starkly contrasting as this light shining through the darkness.  It was a moment to pause and consider my own stance and maybe it will do the same for you.  Am I truly the light shining in the darkness I should be?  Are you?