When Darkness Comes

John 13:29b – And it was night.

This is a short sentence in English. It is even shorter in Greek, just seven letters in three words: en de nux. Yet, on the surface, it seems so unnecessary. John just told us about Jesus saying the one who he shared bread with would betray him. Judas took the bread, Satan entered him, and Judas left the Last Supper. Why did John even write those words? Of course it was night. This was a dinner, after all. 

Let’s not jump away from these words too quickly. All throughout this Gospel, John has been using day and night along with darkness and light as powerful metaphors for people, circumstances, and spiritual reality. Early in the first chapter we are taught that Jesus was the true Light who enlightens every person. (John 1:9). Those who follow Christ walk in the light (John 3:19-21, 8:12, and 12:46). There is a clear pervasive truth that Christ is the “Light of the World.” (John 8:12) 

However, even in Jesus’ life there were times of night and darkness. He foretold the coming night in 9:4, “We must work the works of Him who sent Me as long as it is day; night is coming when no one can work.” He gives a similar warning in 12:35. “The light is among you for a little longer.” Suddenly, these three little words in the middle of the Last Supper become loaded with significance. They speak of more than just the time every day after sunset. They describe the darkness Jesus entered as a result of Judas’ betrayal when he was taken away as a prisoner, falsely accused for a crime he did not commit, suffered unimaginable pain in some of the worst torture ever devised, and, worst of all, bore the guilt of all people of all times and places. It was indeed a dark night. 

Perhaps you are in a season of night and darkness in your life. It may have been brought on by your choices, the fault of another person, or simply horrible circumstances beyond anyone’s control. I do not want to belittle the pain you are experiencing in any way. It is real. It is serious, but it is a season. The same Jesus who foretold his own night said it would come to his followers, yet he also promised a day greater than all. It is not by coincidence that the eternal destination of those who believe in Jesus will never experience darkness or night (Revelation 22:5). 

John even makes the point early on Easter morning, “Now on the first day of the week Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early, while it was still dark.” That darkness finally and completely passed when she met the resurrected Jesus later that morning after the sun rose. 

Whatever darkness you face right now, Jesus knows what you are experiencing. He suffered an even greater night for you so that you could be with him in the place of never ending day. Invite him into your life. Seek his strength in your night. This, too, shall pass.