I remember my first long trip to the Northwest. That was an unforgettable experience for several reasons. For one, the car was jam packed with kids, so I rode in the back window for a good bit of the trip. Of course, I was the one who fit that space best. That was memorable enough, but it also offered a great view of the sky and the landscape. The changing scenery fascinated me. The further west we went, I noticed big black spots that moved over the open countryside. I soon discovered those dark patches were shadows from the clouds.
Somewhere along our westward road, in Missouri, we took a side trip to visit Crystal Cave. We went into the dank, musty, dark cave. I sensed darkness lurking in the far recesses and corners, yet the darkness could not snuff out the lights that illuminated our path. As we went further into the belly of the cavern, it opened up into a big room. It may have been just a little girl’s imaginary recollections, but I remember rickety wooden steps that went down, down, down. Our guide told us stories of the Indians who one time frequented the cave. My imagination took over as I noticed drawings on the cave walls and thought of what it would be like in complete darkness. I was scared! My daddy picked me up and carried me. It did not matter how dark the cave was or how unsteady the path, I felt safe in his arms.
On our journey of life, we often experience dangerous days and stormy dark nights that threaten to expel the light. Those times may cast shadows, but they do not rule over the day. The weight of darkness can be thick, and oppressing. Yet, a ray of light ever so small penetrates the black of night and shatters the obsidian shroud that closes in around us.
.. and the light shone out of darkness..
cave entrance