Light and shadow live in all of us. A perennial truth. From where does the light come, and what is it that hides in the dark?
Out on the edge of the wilderness, Mary and Joseph’s son walks toward the river where his cousin John is baptizing all who crave new life. In solidarity, he wades into the muddy water with them. It was then and there that the Great Spirit feathered upon him like a dove, blessing him with the sweetest of words, “You are the love of my life. I am so proud that you are mine, and that I am yours.”
The Spirit ushered him from the water, into the desert of his own darkness. He fights for his life, as his ego desires turn loose one by one. With healing in his wounds, he emerges from the darkness having done his inner work. His small self is gone. All that remains is the Light. Jesus of Nazareth is clean and clear. Healing now flows like the river in which he gave himself.
Wasting no time, the new rabbi comes back into the center of things to speak his new heart.* Inviting day laborers to follow him, he walks into the meeting place on the Sabbath, full of light that is now his. An inauguration of sorts takes place within the institution that raised him. How surprised were the hearers of his straightforward words… a power and authority so textured, rich, and free. While teaching, he is interrupted by a man possessed by unclean spirits. They cried out, “What are you trying to do to us? We know who you are!” With an outstretched hand, and thunder in his voice, he commands them to leave. In the flood of this radiance, they could not remain.
This is not only a story about an enlightened teacher. It is also our story to embody. The gift of the incarnation wasn’t just meant for him. Co-creating with the Divine, we walk this road known by many names, illumined by One Light. The more inner work we do, the brighter we become. The darkness can no longer hide within us. As it recedes, it becomes unmistakably clear: We bear the Light that speaks truth to the darkness which can never put us out. With healing in every step, we are given the power to sweep out what is unclean within us, and then everywhere. It is our birthright to shine like this.
–Jim Marsh, Jr., Bread of Life Church
