John 8. In recording the discourses of Jesus, John captures brilliant metaphors that hint at deep spiritual truths. Jesus said, “I AM the bread of life” (John 6). Jesus spoke of rivers of living water (John 7). In our text today Jesus speaks to his audience saying, “I AM the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life” (John 8:12).

I rise early each day to pray and read, to have some quiet time with the Lord before I encounter the onslaught of all the activities and people of the day. Most of the year it is dark when I sit down with coffee, my books, and the cat to meet with the Lord. Lately I have taken to lighting a small candle when I first sit down. It’s not enough light to read by, by it does allow me to focus on the flickering flame as I drink my coffee and voice my prayers for the morning. A single candle dispels the darkness in the room. It speaks to hope. Provided I sit there long enough, the sun itself will rise and shed its gentle light on the earth below – my view out over the water, the early fishing boats, and the diving pelicans. The shadows flee in the presence of the rising sun. The world is peaceful at that early hour; hopeful, calm, waiting in anticipation of good things the day may hold.

John draws extensively on the contrast between light and darkness in his narration of Jesus’ life. When Jesus said “I am the light of the world” he was claiming to be the exclusive source of truth, guidance, and eternal life for all humanity. The metaphor of light signifies the ability to guide people out of spiritual darkness, to provide clarity and hope, to reveal hidden truths, and to expose sin. For those who follow him, Jesus offers light that illuminates a spiritual path, allowing people to see things clearly. Light allows one to walk with purpose, direction, and hope.

Light also reveals and exposes hidden things, including secret sins and flawed motives. The darkness in this context is not merely physical but also spiritual, representing sin, confusion, and despair. Jesus is the light that overcomes and destroys these works of darkness. The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it (John 1:9).

In a similar manner, John uses the contrast between slavery and freedom to highlight spiritual realities. Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, “If you abide in my word you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth and the truth will set you free… Truly truly, I say to you everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin, so if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:31-35)

Think of knowing the truth in this text as knowing Jesus, which is the same as having the light of the world present in your life. If you abide (dwell) in the word your life will be full of light and truth – which brings freedom. Truth and light set us free from darkness, doubt, anxiety, fear, and ignorance.

Are you free? Do you dwell in light and hope, with clarity of vision? Do you want to be free? The freedom journey begins with a relationship with Jesus and choosing to spend time with Him and in his word every day. Light your candle daily.