“When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” – John 8:12 NIV
The other day it occurred to me that It’s been a long time since I’ve seen fireflies. As a kid we used to catch them and put them in glass jars to observe close up their amazing ability to produce their own light. I didn’t know then that fireflies light up by letting oxygen into their light organ where it interacts with the chemicals luciferin and luciferase. All I knew was that they were the coolest bugs around. And to see a field or wetland filled with their dancing lights was a common summer treat.
Like I said, it’s been a long time since I’ve seen them. So I did what I do these days and googled fireflies to see if they are disappearing. Turns out fireflies are not going extinct. They are still fairly common in moist rural areas where they can find the snails, slugs, and worms they eat. They also need darkness. It’s hard to attract a mate with your flashing little bottom if you are being overpowered by streetlights.
So why haven’t I seen fireflies lately? I haven’t been looking for them or spending time where they are. I can’t remember when I last walked through a field at night. The light of the fireflies has been replaced by the light of my house, my phone, and my TV.
I think a similar thing happens with God. When we don’t intentionally look to see God in the world, or spend time in places we are most likely to encounter God, then it may seem like God isn’t around anymore. In reality, we may have gotten distracted, but God isn’t going extinct. Jesus is busy shining his light just like he always has.
Let me encourage you to look for some fireflies this summer. But let me encourage you even more to look for God among creation, among God’s people, and in God’s word. May the light of Christ shine on you. And may you reflect his light for the world to see.
In Christ,
Pastor Mark