November - Darkness

 “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:5)

November is truly the time when the approach of winter and darker days becomes a reality. Following a mild autumn, even I have finally put the heating on and find myself in the dark while walking my dogs first thing in the morning.

As a small child, darkness was something that made me feel anxious. Sounds that were a part of the normal creaking of the house seemed to magnify and my inability to see properly in the dark unsettled me. As an adult who is not anxious in the same way, and in fact would much rather have total darkness in order to sleep, I can still be  unsettled with concerns that seem to have literally grown out of all proportion, until exposed to the light of day when they shrink back like weeds under a scorching sun.   

Darkness, both literal and figurative, can often feel overwhelming—a space where hope falters and doubts creep in. Yet, for Christians, these times are not simply to be endured but are opportunities to encounter God in new and transformative ways. In the Bible, darkness is not the absence of God, but rather a canvas upon which His light becomes all the more remarkable. It is within moments of struggle and uncertainty that believers are invited to lean on God’s promises, remembering that even when we cannot see the way forward, we are never truly alone.  Indeed, the journey through darkness can reveal depths of resilience and faith that might otherwise remain hidden. As believers walk through seasons of uncertainty, they are reminded that God's presence is not constrained by circumstance. It is often in the quiet, shadowed places that His gentle assurance breaks through, offering comfort and the promise of renewal.

Again, in Christian tradition, darkness is often used as a metaphor for uncertainty, fear, or separation from God. Yet, it is in these moments of darkness that faith is most profoundly tested and deepened. Scripture reminds us that God is present even when the way ahead seems obscured: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:5)

The Psalms, for instance, speak of walking through the “valley of the shadow of death” (Psalm 23:4), yet affirm that God’s presence remains steadfast, providing comfort and guidance even when the path is shrouded in uncertainty. Similarly, Isaiah declares, “I will give you the treasures of darkness and riches hidden in secret places” (Isaiah 45:3), suggesting that times of obscurity can yield unexpected blessings and deeper understanding.

Even Jesus experienced darkness—most notably in Gethsemane and on the cross—reminding us that moments of despair are not devoid of divine purpose. In these shadowed seasons, Christians are invited to trust not in their own strength, but in God’s unwavering faithfulness. The promise of Christ, “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12), assures us that the darkness will never have the final word. Instead, it is through faith and hope that the light breaks in, transforming even the deepest night into a place of encounter and renewal.

So, as we look to the celebration of the Light of the World coming to us once again next month, I am learning to accept the shorter days, the cold winds and accept that the light and warmth will always return.

Revd Susan