Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Psalm 23:4 ESV

Have you ever made shadow puppets? As a child, with your kids, your grandkids? They’re so much fun, although honestly mine never quite look like they’re meant to!

Have you explained to little ones how shadow puppets are made? What is the central element needed for shadow puppets? Light!

You don’t get shadows without light. And Christ is our light.

The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? Psalm 27:1 ESV

God is faithful in the valley.  When we are overcast by a shadow, God is there. We have not been abandoned, He is there. The Light is there. 

Christ is the light of the world, He is our light and as the Psalmist writes He is also our Shepherd who leads and guides us. He is by our side even in the valley.  So no matter what is overshadowing you, Christ is there. It may be your health, job, children, marriage, parents… Christ is there.

Some will say that a shadow cannot harm you, and in some ways they can’t hurt you. The shadow puppet will not bite, you can’t take it and hit someone over the head with it but that shadow can overwhelm, and it can cause distress, anxiety, worry… But Christ is there, His presence is there providing light, comfort, guidance.

Remember in the dark times in our lives, the Light is there. Take comfort in His presence.  Whatever the shadow you feel you are under today, God is there. 

Read Psalm 23. Mediate on and take hold of God’s promises within it. He promises that He will provide for us (v.1); He will give us rest (v.2-3); He will keep us (v.4); He will guide us (v.4); He will protect us (v.5); He will heal and fill us (v.5); and He will be with us (v.6).

Lord, help me to remember that You are by my side, that when I feel oppressed and overshadowed, You are there. You are with me no matter what I am going through. Lord, shadows are caused when something obstructs the light. Open my eyes that I might see Your light shining through, Your hand working within the situation. Never let me forget that You are there. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.