Lao Tzu, a Chinese philosopher and writer once remarked: "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step". John 8:12 reminds us: Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
A "journey to the light" has multi-faceted definitions which describe a metaphorical, spiritual, or personal process of growth, healing, and transformation, moving from a state of darkness, ignorance, or despair towards knowledge, hope, and enlightenment. The phrase appears in various contexts, including spiritual teachings, charitable organizations, literature, and fanfiction, each with a specific independent meaning and purpose.
Metaphorically, light can be regarded as a spiritual source for freedom. The darkness of life, so frequently encountered, is transformed into clarity and illuminance. In many spiritual contexts, light symbolizes enlightenment, divine presence, and truth, leading to a deeper sense of liberty from ignorance, desire, or negative influences. However, philosophical views, such as Carl Jung's, suggest that true freedom is not an absence of burden but rather the responsibility to carry life's weight and develop an inner strength.
God's light serves to reveal truth and expose evil, providing guidance and illumination for those who follow it, leading to spiritual life, hope, and joy, and enabling them to glorify God by reflecting His holiness and truth to the world. It is a force for judgment against sin and a source of divine wisdom, offering liberation from ignorance and promoting a deeper connection with God.
The story of Saul's conversion in the Bible, (later known as the Apostle Paul) on the road to Damascus is a prominent example of a journey to the light While pursuing Jesus’ followers, a blinding light from heaven flashes around him, causing him to fall to the ground, hear Jesus' voice, and subsequently be guided to Damascus to receive healing and his mission. Acts 9:1-9 reminds us: “But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. Now as he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. And falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” And he said, “Who are you, Lord?” And he said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.” The men who were traveling with him stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one. Saul rose from the ground, and although his eyes were opened, he saw nothing. So they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. And for three days he was without sight, and neither ate nor drank.” Other narratives of journeys involving divine light and guidance include the Israelites' exodus from Egypt, Abraham's call, and the Magi following the star to find Jesus.
Light is a form of energy, specifically a type of electromagnetic radiation that travels as a wave and can also be described as a stream of photons. A "journey to the light" can be indicative of a metaphorical search for freedom, representing a path to inner clarity, self-awareness, and release from negative influences, fears, or past traumas. The "light" symbolizes truth, understanding, and a more authentic, joyful way of living, while the journey itself involves the personal courage to confront inner struggles and shed limiting beliefs. Seeking God by undertaking a journey to the light brings one under His "wingspan." It seeks His protection, refuge, and nurturing care, which is highlighted in the Bible. This concept signifies finding safety, security, and intimacy with God through trust, connection, and acknowledging His authority, much like a bird sheltering its young.
Light is said to possess significant power and force. It can eradicate darkness, or doubt through a simple glimpse. Light could symbolically be compared to winged birds, Both can typify concepts like swiftness, guidance, or the soul, and both can be observed to glow or shine. The "Wings of light" is a concept with varying meanings, most notably representing divine spiritual elevation and protection in Christianity. If one remains outside the realms of God’s protection they may be viewed as flightless birds with no wings to escape danger. Whether one considers the needs of God's protection depends on their religious beliefs, with faith traditions like Christianity and Islam teaching that God is a source of protection from harm and evil, while secular viewpoints often rely on human effort, science, and societal structures for safety. Believers may seek protection through prayer, faith, and living in accordance with their faith's teachings, trusting God's guidance and strength during difficult times.
Eric Ludy, an American pastor and author once remarked: “The power of God has not in the least bit been diminished over the past 2000 years. Our Lord still sits on His great throne and His train still fills the temple. He still walks on the wings of the wind, He still rides on the backs of the mighty cherubim, and He still is the Triumphant Champion from Calvary. All hell still bends to His will, and sin and death have lost their hold on all who rest in the shadow of His presence. And the God who calmed storms, raised up dead men to life, and multiplied fishes and loaves to feed thousands is the same God we have today.” Psalm 91:4 confirms: “He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler.”
For comfort and ease, long journeys require the minimum of baggage. "Traveling light" means to journey with minimal physical luggage, allowing for greater freedom, ease of movement, and a less stressful experience, particularly at airports or when navigating crowded spaces. Figuratively, it can also refer to letting go of mental and emotional baggage, such as worries, negative thoughts, or past hurts, to live a lighter, less burdened life.
If we continue to retain past principles, thoughts or emotions in the progress of any new journey, then diminution or hindrances might occur which incur unforeseen obstacles or pitfalls. New perspectives need to be adopted with focus and clarity so that the objective is achieved with the minimum of restriction.
It should be remembered that most journeys generally require both focus and planning to reach a goal or objective, with the level of planning and focus depending on the complexity and nature of the journey. Planning helps to determine the best route and strategy, while focus is essential to execute the plan and navigate potential challenges, even if the journey involves adjustments along the way. Luke 14:28-30 reminds us: “For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish.’
Isaiah 42:16 is a promise of God's active guidance, assuring that He will lead those who are spiritually lost or uncertain, making a path for them where none seems to exist. God turns darkness into light and makes rough paths smooth, acting as a personal guide for His people, especially during times of spiritual blindness, doubt, or exile. He promises to complete these actions and to never abandon them, providing a reassuring message of hope and steadfast presence. It reminds us: “And I will lead the blind in a way that they do not know, 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.”
Amen.
