By Mike Caton

John 3:19, This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.

Who is it that is giving this verdict? Is this a decision that Jesus has made, as he has come in the flesh, one that he has heard the evidence and come to this conclusion? Or might it be God the Father who has reached this decision, seeing the actions of mankind since the beginning? Or is this the decision of the people of the world? From whatever perspective we see this, we can see all three directions have merit.

But why have people chosen the darkness over the light? Is there something that the light is lacking? Is it not enough, is there not enough proof, is the light weak, is it ineffective? Is the dark more powerful, more truthful, or somehow better than the light? In a court of law, the decision is based on the evidence that is presented. But that is not the case here. Jesus says people have chosen the darkness because their deeds are evil, they are doing the things of the darkness. And let’s be honest, once we get involved in certain deeds, it is often tough to give them up. Even if we know they are wrong, even if we know they are bad for us, even if we know they will hurt other people. Too often people, ourselves included, continue in bad ways simply because it is easier to continue in those ways than to change and begin to do good things. That is a huge reason more people don’t come to the Lord, they realize they are going to have to change their actions and they are simply unwilling to change.

As we approach the new year, maybe we need to examine ourselves, our hearts, our lives, and see if there are things we need to change. Things we need to bring into line with the words of Jesus. Every single one of us needs to do something better, it might be different for each person, but there is something in every life that we struggle with. Don’t reject the truth of Jesus Christ because you love your evil deed more.

Father, help me live for you. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Mike Caton is the preacher at Mount Olive Church of Christ in Belhaven. He volunteers at the Ponzer Fire Department and works part time with Hyde County EMS. If you would like to receive daily devotions in your inbox, email mikecaton@centurylink.net.

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