We descended into the cistern at Meggido in Israel, starting in sunshine.

With daylight and wide steps, we didn’t have to be too careful.

As we continued, the steps began to wind and narrow.

These photos are taken with a flash, so it was a bit darker – but still easy to keep a steady pace. We walked and walked and walked.

One woman started falling behind, watching carefully as she stepped down with one foot and then the other. She finally said, “How are you all walking so quickly?” …as she realized she was still wearing her sunglasses! Of course, her vision was impaired!

When we’re in bright sunlight, we often see better as we wear sunglasses, blocking out the glare of the sun, allowing us to focus. When we’re in the dark, our eyes need to adjust, and we want no physical obstacles on our eyes, as we need to let in as much light as possible to see what’s around us and where we’re going.

Consider the situations of your life. When have you been in a dark period or situation…and made it appear even darker by your attitude or response? When have you been in a bright, joyous time or situation…and been easily distracted by the brightness, struggling to focus on what’s important?

Whatever season you’re in right now, let God guide your vision and focus. It’s not just about what you see with your eyes; it’s what you see – and live – with your heart.

If I rise with the sun in the east and settle in the west beyond the sea, even there you would guide me. With your right hand you would hold me. I could say, “The darkness will hide me. Let the light around me turn into night.”  But even the darkness is not dark to you. The night is as light as the day; darkness and light are the same to you. – Psalm 139:9-12