Day 5: The Savior Who Brought Us from Darkness to Light
John 8:12
There I was—chasing a suspect with a gun in hand through a neighborhood. Moments earlier, he had riddled a house full of people with bullets. He turned a corner. I cut through a yard to intercept him. Suddenly, we were face-to-face. He stood with both hands raised, still gripping an automatic pistol, angry and agitated. He began blaming everything: a cheating wife, an ungrateful family, a collapsing world.
My partner shouted, “You shot at a house because of that?” Then he added, “You need a preacher! Talk to him,” he motioned toward me, “he’s one.”
The man looked at me. Something shifted. Then he asked, “If I shoot you right now, what would you do?”
Time froze. In that moment, everything I believed—my training, faith, and hope—came into focus. I looked at him and said, “I know where I’m going. Do you?”
His shoulders dropped. Tears filled his eyes. He collapsed to his knees and cried, “I don’t!”
Salvation isn’t just about going to heaven. It’s about walking with Jesus here and now, carrying His presence even into life’s darkest moments. On the Cross, Jesus stepped into our darkness so we wouldn’t have to stay there. When we believe in Him, He frees us from guilt, fear, and the weight of our past. He is the light that reveals truth, invites transformation, and offers life. Only then can we confidently say, “I know where I’m going.” Once we’ve seen that light, we can’t help but point others toward it.
Reflection Prayer
Jesus, thank You for being present in my darkest moments. Your presence is not just for eternity—it’s for today. You give hope, calm my fears, and transform my life. You found me in my lostness and lit my path. I am Yours, and You are mine. Help me reflect that assurance to others. Keep me close as I go through this day so Your light shines through me. Teach me to live in truth, obedience, and hope. As I look to the end of my days, I thank You for the Cross that secures my place with You forever. Amen.
Week 1: Christ Our Savior
Colossians 1:13
As we focus on the life of Christ, this week’s theme is Christ Our Savior, which forms part of the fourfold gospel of Jesus, a cornerstone of our denomination. God’s plan for salvation commenced immediately following the fall of mankind in the Garden of Eden. The consequence of sin is death; however, it was not God’s intention for humanity to endure eternal death. Out of His love for the world, He sent His only Son, Jesus, to die on our behalf, allowing us to attain salvation and reconciliation with Him. Salvation can only be obtained through Jesus Christ, as there is no other name by which humanity is saved. Furthermore, our salvation is not achieved through good works, but rather through the righteousness of Jesus, imparted by faith and through the grace of God.
Reflection Questions
Do you believe Jesus has paid your debts in full, or do you still struggle with earning your salvation?
How often have you shared this truth with those close to you who need salvation?
What is your personal salvation story and experience?