The Guiding Light: A Word in Darkness
At the beginning of each episode of the soap: The Guiding Light there was the scene of an oceanic storm. Although the sea was raging and the breakers were hitting the rocks, the lighthouse stood tall, shining in the distance, making the way clearer for ships at sea.
If it wasn’t for this beacon, eminent disaster would be the result.
1. What is a lighthouse?
A lighthouse is tower, building or other type of structure designed to emit light from a system of lamps and lenses and used as an aid to navigation for maritime pilots at sea or on inland water ways (Wikipedia 2002.)
To use additional terminology, lighthouses were erected to give guidance and warningof any potential danger that could not be readily seen without further intervention.
There are two distinct characteristics of lighthouses: guidance and warning. Guidance is the act or process of guiding, from the root word guide. A guide is one who shows the way by leading, directing, or advising.
A guide is also one who serves as a model for others, as in a course of conduct. A warning is an indication, threat, or sign of impending danger or evil. A warning is advice to beware or be aware!
As in the series, a Guiding Light by means of illumination gives directions that should not be ignored. This Light will leads us to a safe path. To disregard the light is risk certain death. The warnings of impending danger or evil are clear and cannot be hidden when exposed by this Light.
2. We as Saints of God have a spiritual Lighthouse
This lighthouse is the word of God. The Psalmist put it so eloquently when he wrote these words:
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” Psalms 119:105.
In this illustration, the sojourner would not stumble and fall in darkness. Not only were his footsteps individually laminated but the path ahead was visible. It’s one thing to be able to see where you are going—but to be able not to fall along the way is wonderful! The written word is a lamp and a light directing our paths and warning us of danger.
The Apostle John tells us that “the Word was made flesh and dwelled among men.”
This tells us that the same word that was written so long ago also came in human form as a living example for mankind. As we continue to systematically study God’s word we become illuminators for others.
Don’t walk around with blinders on. Horses were equipped with blinders so that they could only look ahead and not be distracted by things happening on either side on them. Some people—like horses wear a protective shield thinking that not being aware of their surroundings will protect them from impeding disaster. This is not the case.
3. Let the word of God be your guiding light and you will never dwell in Darkness
Now, that you have been enlighten, let’s broaden our understanding with some scenarios. Application is the best way of demonstrating your comprehension.
Scenario 1
James and Marcia are the new neighbors that moved in next door to you. They are a young couple with one small child aged three years. Marcia comes out to water her roses early one Saturday morning.
This would be a perfect opportunity to introduce yourself and get some idea of where her religious barometer. How would you begin your conversation?
Scenario 2
After talking to Marcia, you find out that she is from a state out West. Marcia is a little shy in the beginning, but later shows signs of real promise. Marcia is eager to learn more about the community and the Bible.
Her husband James comes outside with a frown on his face. He has been secretly observing your conversations with Marcia and wants to know what is going on. How would you begin your conversation with James?
