I was ten years old when my family doctor diagnosed the brain tumour that caused my blindness. Mum and I travelled to Wellington so a brain surgeon could remove it.
In those days there were no CT scans or MRIs—only X-rays, which were not very effective for examining soft tissue. The operation was performed, and I'm so grateful to Mr James, my surgeon, who managed to remove the entire tumour.
One day during my recovery in Wellington Hospital, I became aware of a brilliant, bright light at the end of my bed. I was so excited that I called the nurse, but no one else could see it.
It was a very significant and memorable experience for me, and in hind-sight I believe it was Jesus revealing Himself to me.
He has been my constant companion and guide through my physical darkness ever since. After my optic nerve settled down, a small amount of vision returned, but from that time, I was never able to see faces or read print.
Now, in my senior years, my vision is deteriorating even further. Yet Jesus, my Light and Guide, remains by my side, enabling me to live the life He planned for me.
John 8:12 says:
"I am the light of the world. If you follow Me, you won't have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life."
Whether we are blind like me or have perfect eyesight, Jesus lights up the darkness with insight and understanding. He enables us to walk through life's physical and spiritual murkiness with confidence, knowing He will lead us to the very end of this life and into the next.
If you haven't yet taken Jesus' hand to guide you through this earthly existence, today is your day. Ask Jesus to forgive your sins and become your Lord and Saviour right now. Then follow Him to the end.
Devotional by Jacqui Gardner