"For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins." (Col 1:13-14)
All of us love to watch dramatic rescues on television. If one happens, networks will break into regular programming, allowing us to view it and be involved. There is something in us which desires to see someone rescued from certain death. A few weeks ago, we watched the rescue of thirty-three men from a mine in Chile. It was estimated that more than 10 million people watched CNN, Fox News, and
MSNBC as the two-month ordeal ended for the men trapped underground. It was a triumph for technology and endurance. We watched with eager anticipation, as the miners, one by one were brought to the earth’s surface. After it was over, we breathed a collective sigh of relief and almost felt we were a part of the drama.
Our coal miners here in West Virginia know what it’s like to be underground, often in darkness, living with the constant reminder of how dangerous their work is. My only experience with this kind of darkness was a family trip to Kentucky to visit Mammoth Cave National Park. Deep under the earth our guide treated us to what it was like to experience total darkness. When the lights were turned off, you literally could not see your hand in front of your face. A few seconds of complete darkness was fun, a minute or two was unnerving. Imagine being trapped in that kind of darkness an extended period?
The Bible describes the state of human beings as one of darkness, where people exist under “the dominion of darkness.”Dominion is an old word that relates to authority, rule and ownership. Hollywood has borrowed “darkness” themes, fictionalizing them, creating dark fantasy worlds on screen. Because of a proliferation of these themes, modern thinkers will not even allow serious discussion about the demonic world without mocking, snickering or comparing it to some popular movie. However, for those of us who believe God’s Word, we know it is not fantasy but reality. Satan is not a mythical character wearing a red union suit and carrying a pitchfork but a cunning, intelligent creature who is in the business of deceit and destruction.
One of his greatest covers is atheism. He is the one behind this new trendy atheistic movement. A few years ago the only prominent atheists were revolting figures like Madelyn Murray O’Hare and her ilk. Now it’s cool and hip to be an atheist. Satan through his craftiness has convinced many there is no God and if that is a “forgone conclusion,” certainly, there could not be a devil. It’s a win-win.
As in a dark cave, the absence of light requires one to be led by whoever seems to know the way. In Satan’s case, he leads, but only by stealth. He has convinced a generation that they are independent, savvy and walking in their own intellectual light. Yet, all the time, they are enslaved under his “dominion of darkness.”
What is not reported in the news is a dramatic, full-time ongoing rescue effort, which rarely makes the cut for primetime. These rescues are not through clever technology or man’s wisdom, but through the power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. With the aid of a multitude of nameless heroes, Jesus rescues people from the “dominion of darkness,” freeing them from the slavery of Satan. Now liberated from the power of sin, they enjoy forgiveness, “eternal life” and a purpose for living.
That is the greatest rescue of all!
Good Ole' SM subjoins...
Dear Friends,
Did you know that President Sebastian Pinera of Chile was himself right there hugging them passionately when the miners emerged one by one from the "Dark pit" ? And now what about our "President" Lord Jesus Christ? He went straight into the pit, experiencing the darkness himself, in order we see light! Amazing grace, isn't it? If that doesn't inspire an "Hallelujah" from you, nothing else will.
Without leaving this devo "trapped in your own system" now how about circulating it to one and all including those at the "ends of the World"...including some friends in Chile?
By the way, do you know Chile is at the "ends of the World"?
by,
D.Dinakaran Samuel(9502847166)
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