Times of Darkness Today

The situation in Isaiah's day was very similar today.  In our time, human leaders have turned  their backs on Jehovah and his enthroned King, Jesus Christ.  (Psalm 2:2, 3) The religious leaders of Christendom have deceived their flocks.  Such leaders claim to serve God, but in truth most of  them promote the gods of this world-nationalism, militarism, wealth and prominent individuals-to say nothing of teaching pagan doctrines.

In one place after another, Christendom's religions have been involved in wars and civil strife that feature ethnic cleansing and other horrors.  Furthermore, rather than taking a stand for Bible-based  morality, many churches are either winking at or actively supporting immoral practices like fornication and homosexuality.  As a result of such rejection of Bible standards, Christendom's flocks are like those men  spoken of by the ancient psalmist: "They have not known, and they do not understand; in darkness they keep walking about." (Psalm 82:5) Truly, Christendom, like ancient Judah in deep darkness. - Revelation 8:12.

Amid such darkness, Jehovah is causing light to shine for the sale of meek ones.  For this, he is using his anointed servants on earth,  "the faithful and discreet slave,"  and these are "shining as illuminators in the world."  (Matthew 24:45; Philippians 2:15)  That slave class, supported by millions of "other sheep" companions, reflects spiritual light based on God's Word, the Bible.  (John 10:16)  In this bedarkened world, such light gives meek ones hope, assists them to have a relationship with God, and helps them to avoid spiritual pitfalls.  It is precious, life-giving.

Next time: "I Laud Your Name"

The Watchtower, 2001