Early
in my seminary learning, a professor pointed out that the Bible uses repetition
as a way to illustrate the importance of the story point. Importance is also
shown by the amount of space it takes up. The story may not always be told in
the exact words, but the story itself is important.
He
pointed out that the call of Samuel is
not a one-time thing; it happens three times. The story of creation is not told
once, but twice in Genesis and summarized in several psalms. God’s activity in
history is everywhere throughout the Bible.
This
recognition of importance by duplication and space says something to us as we
consider our cars and driving needs. The sheer number of vehicles, highways,
parking lots, etc., shouts out the importance of the car to our lives. The
number of speed limit signs, cautionary signs, and stoplight/signs says
something about our concern for the safety of others and ourselves.
Yet
all of this mobility would be challenged if it weren’t for our ability to light
the darkness. Streetlights, headlights, taillights, directional signals, all
make driving possible during the day and at night.
John
12:36 is referenced three times this Lent. That we are called to be the
children of Light is important.
As
we drive in the darkness, turning on our lights on the highways for our safety,
so we are called to shine Christ ’s light of hope
into the darkness of despair, abuse, oppression, hopelessness. We may not
always solve the problems, but as we engage them, time and time again, we will
tell the world how important these issues are to us and God’s concern for peace
and justice in the world.
Prayer
Lord,
as our headlights illumine our way in the darkness of night, let your light
shine in our lives that we might know your presence and leading in the darkness
of our lives. Amen
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