Walking in the Light

Reflections for this date are based on the following scripture passages:
Ephesians 4	Ephesians 5	Ephesians 6	Numbers 8	Numbers 9	Numbers 10

Becoming a follower, or imitator, of Christ is to accept a different paradigm. It is not just changing the set of rules by which we live, but adopting a whole new worldview. For some, becoming a follower of Christ is about a lot of does and don'ts and not having fun anymore. But the true follower of Christ knows that it is not about a set rules but about a relationship with Christ. It is about doing some things and not doing other things becomes that is what one wants to do, not because they have to. It is about a whole new outlook in which one doesn't stop having fun but has a different perspective about what is fun.

The true follower of Christ will say that they have more fun as a follower than they did before following Christ. The fun they now have is lasting and has no regrets. It is never harmful to themselves or others nor disrespectful of anyone. There are no downsides to their fun, only upsides. This is not to say the follower of Christ never has any problems or troubles. They do, but not as a result of their "fun." Troubles are a natural part of life, and they have them just like anyone else. But they also have God's Spirit living in them to guide them, give them wisdom, and help them endure through the trouble.

The apostle Paul, in the 4th chapter of Ephesians says that the followers of Christ walk in light rather than in darkness as they did prior to following Christ. This light casts a different perspective on life than they appeared in the dark. The fruit of the light, he says, "results in all goodness, righteousness, and truth--discerning what is pleasing to the Lord." (Ephesians 4:9-10) By contrast, he says the works of darkness are fruitless. (4:11) He further contrasts the two saying that walking in the light is to walk in wisdom while walking in darkness is unwise.