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Put on Light!

The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Romans 13:12 (NIV)

Paul’s imagery here is both urgent and hopeful, painting a vivid picture of transition from night to day, from darkness to light. The “night” represents the old way of living, defined by sin, secrecy, selfishness and fear. The “day” signifies Christ’s reign breaking into the world, a new reality shaped by God’s kingdom bringing justice, peace, and transformation. “Put on the armor of light” points to both a spiritual protection and an ethical responsibility: we are called not only to receive the light but also to wear it as our covering, defense, and testimony. To “put on the armor of light” is to be covered in Christ’s presence — defended, guided, and empowered to live faithfully in the face of the world’s shadows.

Recently, we have been plagued with viscous divisive words, gun violence, threats of violence on HBCU campus, and violence hanging from trees reminiscent of a time long ago. The words of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. mirrors those of Paul, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” Therefore, in times like these, it is imperative that we be light bearers because your light — no matter how small you feel it may be — can ignite hope in others and join with the greater light of Christ’s people to transform communities.

Let’s Reflect:

The Protection of Light

Light exposes what is hidden and shields us from stumbling in the dark. Just as headlights protect a driver from danger on a foggy road, the light of Christ protects us from destructive choices, spiritual blindness, and hidden snares.

Where do you need the protection of Christ’s light in your life right now?

The Provision of Light

Light makes the way clear. It provides direction, warmth, and hope. The same God who said, “Let there be light” at creation provides us with Christ, the Light of the world, to illuminate our path. Light does not remove the journey, but it equips us with clarity to take each faithful step.

How is God providing direction through His light for your current season?

The Power of Light

Light always triumphs over darkness. One small candle can drive shadows from a room. Likewise, the power of Christ’s light within us has authority over despair, hatred, fear, and injustice. Darkness cannot overcome it. When we “put on the armor of light,” we step into God’s power to resist evil and to radiate His presence in a hurting world.

Who around you needs to experience the power of Christ’s light through your words or actions? How can you use the power of His light to bring hope to someone else this week?

Let’s Act:

· Choose Light Daily: Start each day by praying, “Lord, clothe me in Your light.”

· Walk in Integrity: Allow the light to guard your words, choices, and actions.

· Be a Lightbearer: Share encouragement, stand for justice, and extend compassion in places of despair.

· Resist the Darkness: When temptation, fear, or negativity creep in, remind yourself of the armor of light you wear in Christ.

Let’s Pray

Lord of Light,

We thank You for calling us out of darkness into Your marvelous light. Protect us from stumbling, provide clarity for our path, and empower us to shine brightly in a world that often feels shadowed by despair. Clothe us each day in the armor of Your light, that we may reflect Your love, truth, and justice. May our lives be a testimony that the night is nearly over and the day of Christ is at hand. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

This week, may you walk confidently in the protection, provision, and power of God’s light.

Love & Light,

Rev. Dr. Sondrea L. Tolbert

Executive Director & CEO