I had this desk lamp that flickered. It would suddenly turn off. I’d ignore it and keep working. Then it would turn back on.

Do you ever feel that way about you and God? 

One day you are dialed in, trusting him above your feelings and living victoriously. The next day you lose your cool or bury yourself in blankets of despair or complain about all your problems.

Sometimes God is so near, and other times it seems like he’s busy on the other side of the galaxy. 

On. Off. On. Off. On. Off. You try to ignore it and keep living. But it’s just not right. Maybe you’re doing something wrong. Maybe God isn’t as good as he promises.

“In [Jesus] was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:4,5).

Maybe you’re just not seeing God’s light. You might be looking for Jesus in the sky, but he’s in the manger. You might be expecting the Father to change your circumstances, but he wants to change you.

“God with us” (Immanuel) is always here. You don’t need to go through life waiting for God to show up, as if a desk lamp has suddenly gone out and you hope it comes back on soon. Jesus Christ is here.

Dear God, open my eyes of faith to see your light. As Christ’s light lives in me, reflect him through me to others. Amen.