Susan’s sermon explores the themes of darkness and light, using the poetic language of John’s Gospel to challenge traditional associations of light with goodness and darkness with evil. She explains how these associations have historically been harmful, particularly when tied to racial and cultural biases. Susan invites us to see darkness in a new way—not as something inherently negative, but as a space where God’s presence and holiness can also be found. Drawing on examples like the children’s book God’s Holy Darkness and the writings of John of the Cross, she reminds us that spiritual darkness is not always a sign of failure or God’s absence. Instead, it can be a sacred space where we are invited to grow, trust, and draw closer to God, even when we can’t feel or see God’s presence.
Susan encourages us to embrace the physical and spiritual darkness of winter, not as something to be dreaded but as an opportunity to simplify, find comfort, and rest in God’s love. She highlights the Danish concept of hygge—finding contentment in small, cozy pleasures like a warm drink or a good book—and reminds us that darkness can nurture us just as light does. For those of us struggling with grief, sadness, or despair, Susan offers reassurance that even when the light feels hidden, it is still shining, and the darkness only makes the light brighter when it emerges. She invites us to lean on our community and walk together through difficult times, confident that God’s love accompanies us always, even in the darkest moments.
Reflection Questions for this Week:
- Susan asks us to see darkness as something sacred and transformative rather than negative. How can embracing this idea change the way we view challenges or difficult times in our lives?
- Have you ever experienced a time of spiritual darkness when God felt absent? How did you find strength or meaning during that time?
- Susan highlights the concept of hygge, or finding comfort and joy in simple things during dark times. What small practices or habits help you find peace and contentment during difficult seasons?