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Go back to the words of Exodus (25) (Exodus 10:21-29)
The text depicts the 9th plague of darkness among the 10 plagues that came upon Egypt. When Pharaoh did not let the Israelites go despite the plague of locusts, God told Moses to stretch out his hand toward the sky so that there would be darkness in the land of Egypt (verse 21). As he said, when Moses raised his hand toward the sky, there was darkness over all the land of Egypt for three days (verse 22). How afraid were the Egyptians who worshiped the sun god at that time? On the other hand, where the children of Israel dwelt, there was light (verse 23). So, in no case do not lose hope.
These days, the problem of social darkness caused by inequality is serious. Faith is an amazing force that makes a confession of gratitude, “My cup overflows!” even in difficult situations, but if someone else's cup is empty and my cup overflows, darkness continues. The darkness will fade only when we all share our joy as our cups overflow together.
Humans feel unhappiness not because they are not treated better than others, but because they are not treated fairly. If it is really fair, even punishment can be tolerated, but if it is not fair, it is not pleasant to receive hospitality, according to the conscience of ordinary people. However, since God's judgment is fair, there is no one to evade by accident and no one to be sacrificed unfairly, so the sharing of joy is possible.
Starting with God, the ending always ends in good. When the end is good, every painful process feels good too. So, always hope in God. Despair is the conclusion of the fool and hope is the conclusion of the wise. In Greek mythology, Athena, the goddess of wisdom, loved an owl. Because owls can see things even in the dark. Cultivate eyes to see the truth in the dark like that, and live with hope always.
Now do this once a day. First, look at the high sky and beautiful nature at least once a day. Second, do something good for others at least once a day. Third, sweat once a day that promises health and happiness. Fourth, plow the field of your heart by dealing with good writing at least once a day. Fifth, at least once a day, pray before God and reflect on yourself. Then you can sing of joy and hope in any environment. Man's greatest victory is to overcome oneself and create hope by shining a light in a dark environment.
<Go back to the Word>
Why is the human world so dark? The main cause is human pride. The main theme of the Bible is that God corrects all the contradictions, disorder, and confusion created by proud humans. God always hates and humbles the proud, but He always loves and exalts the humble. God hates pride more than anything.
The 7th-century monk Johann Climachus defined pride this way: “Pride is the devil's invention to flee from a God-denying God. Pride is the mother of reproach, the harbinger of madness, the creator of downfall. Pride is a source of anger and a gateway to hypocrisy. Pride is the devil's fortress, the guardian of sin, and the source of cruelty. Pride is also the negation of compassion, utter hypocrisy, and a ruthless judge. After all, pride is the enemy of God and the root of blasphemy.”
How do you get out of the swamp of pride? Light must come from God. The light of God usually comes when we experience the Word. That's why it's so important to spend time close to the Word. When players get into a slump, coaches have them repeat the basic moves. And then it slowly recovers. Just as the turbulent water becomes calm only when it reaches the sea, so if life does not take you to a turn, return to the Word that teaches you the basics of life. If you read, listen, and meditate deeply on the Word, you will surely find new hope.
The Word is a lamp that illuminates darkness. If you hold on to the Word and live, you will not get lost. Jesus, who became the way, became flesh and came among us. So, if we hold on to the Word and live, the way will be opened even in darkness, and if we experience the Word, we will be transformed. Always keep the Word close. It is important to receive grace through sermons, but take a lot of time to read and meditate on the Word on your own. As such, live your life centered on the word, experience the most appropriate word given to you when the time comes, and live with hope in the midst of darkness.