The Sun Is Shining

Let us take time to dwell on some ideas about Jesus. Just as the path of the righteous becomes brighter until the full day, this must surely represent the idea of becoming more like Jesus. But not only that, I have noticed of late, a number of scriptures that make a comparison between Jesus and the sun. One such very clear text is from Revelation 1:16 which records Jesus' face to be "like the sun shining in its full strength." So is it possible that the full day represents both becoming like and coming to be with Jesus? If so, what can we take from that understanding? Perhaps a careful consideration of the benefits of the sun will take us to a greater understanding of the pleasures of Jesus.

The sun is illuminating, making for a clear view of reality, and exposing any imperfection. Jesus also says of Himself that He will open eyes to allow people to turn from darkness to light (Acts 26:18). And in the gospel of John the Bible records that Jesus "enlightens every man" (John 1:9). Does not Jesus reveal things that are shrouded in darkness when he enters a person's life?

Sunshine is a source of life. We take from it important vitamins and plants need it to grow. I would suggest to you that we too need Jesus if life is what we want. The Bible tells us that Jesus also gives life and not just existing but living abundantly (John 10:10). Yet, surely this temporal life is not enough on its own. In Jesus is the hope of eternal life if we are joined to Him (Romans 6:8, 23).

What about an ice cube? The sun doesn't exactly produce the best results for the frostiest of natures. No it doesn't. The hard and life-suspending properties of ice are quickly dissolved under the heat of a noon-day sun and in like manner Jesus deals with those spiritual conditions which are frozen otherwise. In the book of the prophet Malachi, God tells of His Messiah (Jesus) and declares Him to be coming in a manner of heat that refines and purifies, like a blast furnace (Malachi 3:1-4). And in a letter to the early church Paul tells of a day when mankind will be tested by fire (1 Corinthians 3:13). So let us accept the closeness of Jesus which melts our icy cold hearts.

Why do so many Canadians escape the bitter cold winter to go south? I would suggest; the comfort provided by the sun. Well, time spent in deep relationship with Jesus is better than a Caribbean getaway, it will never end. The fourteenth chapter of the gospel of John records some of the most comforting words the Lord ever spoke. In verse one Jesus said, "Do not let your heart be troubled" and later He said, "My peace I give to you" (v27). What a welcome break from the harsh condition of this world. Jesus goes way beyond a holiday in providing for His own the peace that passes understanding (Philippians 4:7).

God is so good, His grace is so free and every day the sun rises in the east. We have such an opportunity in these days to remember Him. So, the next time you step out and the mid-day sun is overhead, take a minute to look up, close your eyes and smile. Feel the warmth of Jesus' love for you and soak it up.