When I was a small child, I was terribly afraid of the dark. I would do anything not to have to go into a dark room or out into the black night. I did not get any sympathy from my mother who expected me to behave like a big girl and set an example of bravery for my younger siblings. I do not think that she was doing this to be mean, more like being instructive for future behavior.

It did not help. I remained terrified of the dark. I can remember my mother asking me to go upstairs to the unlit attic to retrieve something that I had left there during the day. I danced around at the bottom of the stairs trying to get up enough courage to run up the stairs, get the item and run back down-never lingering to see what was up there.

I also had the same issue when I would come from my grandmother’s house. She lived next door, but my grandfather’s store was between the houses. We lived in a semi-rural area so, there was no street lighting or other houses nearby. I would run from her house to the edge of the store and grab on to the building. I would look wildly around to see what dangers were present and then I would run to the other side of the store. Finally, I could sprint the last short distance to our house and scamper in unscathed. I preferred to stay overnight at her house than go back home (but that is another story for another day.)

The other night, I had to get up in the middle of the night and those memories came back to me again. Everything looks so different in the dark. I had to remind myself that there is nothing to be afraid of even in the dark. I reminded myself that I am safe in the darkness because I am a child of the Light of the World who shines in my heart and leads me safely from the dangers of this world. Then Jesus spoke out again, “I am the light of the world. The one who follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12 NET)

The people of Haiti and Afghanistan have been in my thoughts and prayers. The hymn that I have attached is such a poignant expression of my prayer for all of us. The composer is my cousin Tom Kendzia, a man of great faith and talent and an all-around good guy.  The words are beautiful and the melody haunting. Take a moment to listen and pray today. Remembering all the while, God loves you unconditionally.

Terri