But if we walk in the light as He Himself is in the light, we have fellowship with one another and the blood of His Son Yeshua [Jesus] purifies us from all sin.  1 John 1:7, TLV

Shedding Light in Dark Places.   Taken out of context, the images this verse brings to our imagination could be little lambs frolicking in the sunshine. The Great Shepherd leaning on His staff, chuckling at how cute His little creatures are. And no doubt that is part of the picture within the context of this chapter, however, the whole picture is different.

If we say we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. (vs. 8, TLV)

Think of an old stuffy attic that no one has been in for years. Suddenly a spotlight shines and the true nature of the room is revealed. We see plenty of creatures frolicking, but they’re not cute, cuddly sheep. They’re more like spiders and rodents and dust bunnies. And the junk that’s been accumulating! OY!

It might seem logical that when we’re with Yeshua — in His Light — all will be well. And at first, that’s probably true. The pure excitement because He’s with us.

Unfortunately, each of us has an attic that hasn’t been cleaned — for some, their whole life. And when His pure light shines in all those once hidden, dark places, ugly things will scurry out. All the baggage we’ve hidden up there is revealed.

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. (vs. 9, TLV)

Fear not, there is a solution. Acknowledging our ugly things — our sins — confessing them and He will forgive.

That’s the tried and true sanctification process:

• Shine the Light.
• YUCK! See what’s revealed.
• Confess.
• Receive forgiveness.
• Reconcile with the other sheep, when necessary.
• Forgive others.
• Frolic freely … until the next ugly thing scurries out or we unpack the next baggage.

It’s hard to not be discouraged when things don’t go perfectly in families, ministries, friendships, and fellowship. We want to frolic and do good work with Jesus, right?

Just know, if ugly things aren’t coming out, then they’re probably hidden in darkness. Because nothing can withstand His Light except His righteousness.