Remember when we were blind? When we could not fight the powers of darkness? When we were unable to understand the Redeemer’s message? The god of this age had blinded our minds, leaving us in unbelief. But God pierced our darkness.

Still, we catch ourselves responding with angst, frustration, and aversion—repulsed by what we see and hear on social media, on the streets of our cities, and in the world. We think, “Surely no one could be that blind.” Their mockery, trickery, deceit, slander, and accusations are so blatant. Their fraud, abuse, betrayal, treason, and atrocities are shouted from the rooftops.

And that is the point. People who do not yet know Jesus are blind. When they are unable to see through the darkness they inhabit, we are looking at someone who is losing life, withering, and passing away.

Instead of focusing on the behavior of a dying person, we can turn and gaze into the face of Jesus Christ. The One who said, “Let brilliant light shine out of darkness” is the One who poured the brilliant light of His glorious knowledge into us (2 Corinthians 4:6). Now mercy rests on us. His mercies are fresh and new each morning—His blood sprinkled on our conscience, cleansing and purifying us. And the pure in heart will see Him.

He responds with mercy. He specializes in mercy. May we also specialize in mercy. We have been entrusted with the privilege of this new-covenant ministry: to present the truth of the lordship of Jesus Christ.

We never give up on the lost and dying. When we do not know what to do, quitting is not an option. We are like common clay jars that carry this glorious treasure within, so that the extraordinary overflow of power will be seen as God’s, not ours (see 2 Corinthians 4:1-8).

If you feel the tension in your heart and body when you hear bad news; if your blood pressure rises when you listen to lies cloaked as truth, face accusations, or encounter an unlovable person—thank God for unveiling that negative response. Then proclaim His word over them:

In the power of Your name, Lord Jesus, let there be light! Let Your brilliant light pierce the veil of darkness over our lost son, daughter, family member, neighbor, the soul living on the street, the city council, the newscaster, the politician…