If someone told you that they “Got Lit” during their New Year’s celebrations, you’d probably infer they were either very drunk or high. That’s fair, it is the most common usage. But NOT the one I’m talking about today.
So “getting lit” usually refers to being so intoxicated (however someone chose to get that way) that pretty much all they are capable of is sitting in one place with a stupid-looking grin on their face. Like I said, not the behavior I’m encouraging, to be sure. The Urban Dictionary gives a second definition, saying the term can refer to becoming “literate” or fluent in one’s use of technology to navigate 21st Century information complexity. The goal of being “lit” in that sense is being able to tell when someone is trying to deceive you with misinformation and untruth. Well, being able to discern truth from lies is certainly an admirable skill. We’re getting closer, but that’s not my point, either.
Today’s verse says YOU WILL LIGHT MY LAMP, LORD. MY GOD WILL LIGHT UP MY DARKNESS.
Trying to walk in the dark can be a real challenge. You bump into things, stub your toes – even knock things over. Trying to walk through life in the dark is much tougher. When you find yourself in a dark place you can feel as though there is no hope. The world and it’s battles can be a very overwhelming place. When you feel blinded, groping in the darkness, you can be very uncertain of where to turn. The best answer I’ve found is not a “where” – but a “who.” Jesus is the light you need; He is the Light of the World.
He promises to lead those blinded by darkness in a way that they do not know. He says, “In paths that they have not known I will guide them. I will turn the darkness before them into light, the rough places into level ground. These are the things I do, and I do not forsake them.” Christ guides us as we navigate the dark places. He’s our lamp! He lights up our darkness. He gives light to those who sit in darkness – even in the shadow of death – and guides our feet into the way of peace. His peace. You see, when you allow Him to be your guide in the dark places of your life, Jesus guides you into places of light and gives you peace as you travel. His presence within you is your light and your peace.
You may not know the final solution. You may not be able to see how you’ll get out of the mess you’re in. But if you know the One who solves every problem with wisdom, grace and love you can move from darkness to light with peace in your heart.
And it gets better.
Not only is He the light of the world, but when He calls you out of darkness and into His marvelous light – He lights YOU up! The same Jesus who said, “I am the light of the world” promised that “Whoever follows Me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” The same God who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. At one time we all were in darkness. But now the ones who know Jesus are light in the Lord. His light dawns in the darkness for the upright; because He is gracious, merciful, and righteous. We all need to “get lit.”
Since we are “getting lit” we should walk as children of light. Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. When Jesus walked the earth He was the initial fulfilment of Isaiah’s prophecy, and the people dwelling in darkness saw a great light, and for those dwelling in the region and shadow of death, on them a light dawned. But you and I are also called to be lights to a world lost in darkness. We continue that fulfilment Christ began.
When you “get lit” you are the light of the world. Let your light shine bright, because those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky above; and those who turn many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever.
So how about if you and I get lit today? Pray this prayer with me …
LIGHT MY LAMP, LORD
