The Coming Eclipse

As you probably know a total eclipse of the sun is coming to North America next week (April 8, 2024).  For some parts of Mexico and the United States, the sun will be completely blocked by the moon entering into its path. In other regions the sun will be partially blocked. Here in NJ, we will experience an 80-90% blockage of the sun’s light.  It’s an awesome event that is extremely rare (the next one to cross through mainland US will be in 2045). That’s what makes it so special. After all, if an eclipse took place every year, it would be no big deal. But because it happens so infrequently it draws our attention. 

We might also say that, an eclipse like this is not what we would consider to be “natural” or “normal.” Yes, it is nature doing its thing, but in our general experience, it’s not what we expect from the sun and moon. After all, we expect that during the day the sun will shine (and the moon will stay out of its way) and at night the moon will shine—at least according to its phases and rotations around the earth. When an eclipse like this takes place, something out of the ordinary is taking place; it’s not “normal.”  In our minds, it is not the way it is supposed to be.  

Just as the sun is supposed to consistently shine without any hinderance to its life-giving rays, we might say, so too our lives as followers of Jesus are meant to consistently shine. Jesus said, “…let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16 – NIV) Just before that he said to his followers, “You are the light of the world.” (vs.14). That is supposed to be the normal and regular routine of our lives: shining the light of Christ; being the light of the world, without anything getting in the way of that light. 

We all have to admit, however, there are times when we allow the light of our lives to be eclipsed and our light begins to dim. When we give into anger and bitterness; when the words that come out of our mouths are foul, distasteful, hurtful, or coarse; when we fall back into sinful and immoral ways; when we fail to show kindness, compassion, gentleness, etc.—and so much more—the light we are supposed to shine, is dimmed or even darkened. The light of our lives is eclipsed. 

That’s why the Apostle Paul wrote, “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light  (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth)  and find out what pleases the Lord. Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness….” (Ephesians 5:8-10) 

As we experience the coming eclipse of the sun, let’s be challenged to not allow the light of our lives to be eclipsed, but instead to shine as brightly and as consistently as we were meant to shine! “You are the light of the world.” 

Have a great day! And don’t look directly into the sun! 

- Pastor Tim Harris