The Inward Light Has Two Dimensions
“First, the Inward Light reveals our shortcomings (sins) and second, it guides us towards a better life. Many liberals don’t feel comfortable with the word “sin” so I’d like to suggest a definition that is both biblical and compatible with our modern Quaker ideas. “Sin” in the Bible is not primarily about morality; it is about ethics. Jesus didn’t condemn the adulterer; he lambasted religious hypocrites and those in power, especially the 1%. The prophets of the Hebrew Bible were more concerned with justice than with personal morality. Prophets condemned the rich, lifted the concerns of the poor, and called on God’s people to live lives of justice and truth [….]
The Inward Light is also a source of joy and peace. George Fox’s heart ‘leapt for joy’ when he heard an inward voice telling him ‘There is one, even Christ Jesus, that can speak to your condition.’ Fox realized he didn’t need to go to priests, pastors, or other “experts” to solve life’s problems; the answers were within him, if he lived a life faithful to the Inward Light. What a liberating realization! This liberating Light is identified with the Logos, the Creative Word of God, described by John as the ‘the Light that shines in the darkness.’ John also said that this Light is the Spirit that created and sustains the universe.”
— Anthony Manousos, 2012
Quaker activist and educator
Today’s Invitation
Explore the two dimensions of the inward light: light as a revealer and light as a guide.
This Week’s Query
If there is “that of God in everyone” what does that mean for your relationship with yourself?
When has someone seen that of God in you?
Read the source of today’s quote
Banner art by Arla Patch
