Of Darkness and Light

“Brothers and sisters: You were once darkness, but now you are the light of the world.”

Who might you guess is the Saint of Darkness? Despite her joyful smile and public witness, Mother Theresa experienced a trial of faith known as “dark night of the soul.” The dark night of the soul is a period of spiritual depression, struggles, and pain that can happen to any believer. The “dark night of the soul” is also a term that originates from the 16th century Spanish poet and Roman Catholic mystic, St. John of the Cross.

As was disclosed, following Mother Theresa’s death, she felt abandoned by God. It is written that her inner struggle, which lasted almost 50 years, lead her to what she called, “spiritual poverty.” She could then easily identify with those who experienced the depths of life’s pains.

As a patient of “the dark night” (depression) those dark nights brought me to understand the pain of others. This darkness can bring forth the compassion the Lord asks of us. Sharing the pain with others, we make a deeper connection. Darkness and depression provide an opportunity to feel more deeply. Suffering suggests that personal pain can inspire a stronger desire to help others.

When acknowledging, relating, and affirming others’ pain and darkness, we serve as God’s disciples. Darkness heightens the senses and provides a greater awareness of the more important things in life: God, love, family, hope.

Despite the darkness, a transformation awaits us if we allow it. The transformation is this: CHRIST IS THE SOURCE OF LIGHT. Through darkness, suffering and trauma can have positive long-term effects. We can gain wisdom, strength, acceptance, reality, humility, compassion.

We read in scripture passages of light and darkness, which emphasize transformation from evil to good. Light reveals hidden truths and dispels darkness at the same time. God's presence provides eternal illumination.

“Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead,

and Christ will give you light.”

Today's Readings