The Dark Side

“This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light, because their deeds were evil.” John 3:19

The Dark Side – Simply saying those words in this day and age evokes images of a creature in all black breathing heavily through a mask. His name is Darth Vader. Star Wars is a classic battle between good and evil. It has filled Hollywood screens and home theatres for more than 40 years now. It debuted in 1977 and to this day is still one of the best sellers of all time. The sequels are even outpacing the originals. Let’s face it; nothing will draw people to the movies quicker than an epic good vs. evil flick.

In Star Wars: Episode III, we find out exactly how Anakin Skywalker succumbs to the temptations of evil and becomes Darth Vader. Many people have tried to draw biblical parallels and symbolism in Star Wars. George Lucas, its creator, has even admitted that he has tried to send somewhat of a spiritual message. Frankly, Star Wars has little in common with biblical truth. But the “dark side” does have a biblical basis. It is a side that we all have. There is a Darth Vader in all of us and the Bible calls this dark side sin.

Jesus even spoke of the dark side in John 3:19 when He said: “This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light, because their deeds were evil.” Jesus connects darkness, or “the dark side,” with evil deeds or sin. Jesus Himself is the Light that has come into the world. Throughout the gospels, Jesus refers to Himself as the light of the world. In John 9:5 Christ said this: “While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” What did He mean by, “While I am in the world?” Who would be God’s light after Jesus physically left earth?

Jesus told His disciples in Matthew 5:14, “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.” Later in that same passage He encouraged them to, “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they will see your good deeds and glorify My Father who is in heaven.” Do you see the connection? Jesus brought God’s light to the dark side for the 33 years He walked on earth. Then, upon His return to heaven, He sent God’s light to live in His followers through the Holy Spirit. That makes us, His followers, the light of the world.

Dear God, thank you for sending your Son to die for me so that I didn't have to remain in darkness forever. I pray that you would help me to live my life as a light to those around me, and grant me the ability to avoid the darkness and evil that tries to overtake me. Amen.