God is Light — Rob Covington

On May 18, 2017 the band Linkin Park played the title track of what would be their final album on Jimmy Kimmel Live. Lead sing Chester Bennington passionately sang the song One More Light in an emotional tribute to his friend who had recently died by suicide.

The scene was emotional and it highlighted what had made Linkin Park’s music special. Much like Kendrick Lamar’s relationship with God has taken center stage in much of his music; Linkin Park’s music often centered around the band members' personal struggle with mental health. Their music has been uplifting and encouraging to millions.

Our scripture this week strikes that same note of encouragement, in the midst of struggle. It was written long after Jesus had risen, and at a time when many of those who had been with Jesus were beginning to die off. 1 John 1:5-10 is an encouragement to the community to hold tight to the truth that they have been taught, and the passion of the writer is clear. You can read 1 John 1: 5-10 below.

5 This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. 6 If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. 8 If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word is not in us.

The writer makes the case that we always have the choice to follow God. God has called us his own, and has invited us to life with him. This reality is highlighted in three key ways.