I was reading Exodus 20:21, RE Exodus 12:14, and it struck me how the record says, “the people stood afar off, and Moses drew near unto the thick darkness where God was.” Interesting how Joseph had thick darkness gather around him and it seemed for a time as if he were doomed to sudden destruction when he approached the Lord too (see JSH-1:15). When Moses went to the Lord it was darkness to the people. It was terrifying to the people. Moses had to sanctify himself to be able to ascend the mount of the Lord but his people wouldn’t do it. It appeared to be darkness and it was to them.
When one seeks the Lord all hell breaks loose in an attempt to thwart the sincere seeker from finding God. Joseph is that example of that fact and the perspective of those outside the experience is much like the people watching Moses. It was nerve racking business and they wanted nothing to do with ascending the mount for it was dark to them. I have had friends and associates say it’s dark to them when I share the truth about the error about polygamy, following the prophet etc. I think what they may really be saying is it’s new to them and therefore, feels uncomfortable to them. They equate unfamiliarity with darkness. Scripturally they’d be wise to consider these verses mentioned.
When we seek the Lord it requires our willingness to look at everything and see if we are trapped in any false beliefs or sinful behavior. As we come to the Light of the world, we will see everything about ourselves (John 3:19-21; RE John 2:3). It’s uncomfortable for some to feel naked before the Lord. We’re tempted to get fig leaves to cover our nakedness when what is really required is repentance. Jesus cleanses as we repent. Then we can fully bask in the light and enter the presence of the Lord. It’s no longer scary, but comfortable, if we’ve put in the work of repentance. Glory to God and His Son, Jesus Christ, whose blood fulfills the demands of justice and makes it possible for us to enter into the presence of the Lord.
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