November 18, 2019

Country music singer Eric Church tucked his son into bed for the night. But his son needed the lights in the bathroom on so that he would be safe. His father adjusted the light and his son was able to fall asleep assured that the light would protect him.

As Eric thought about that experience, he wrote a song called Monsters. I was very moved when I heard this song and decided to share the lyrics with you.

I killed my first monster when I was seven years old

He melted like butter in my bathroom’s sixty-watt bulb

Kept a three-cell MagLite from Daddy’s workshop drawer

Under my pillow and I’d pull it like a sword

Anymore when a restless feelin’ keeps me up at night

Fallin’ on my knees is my new turnin’ on the light

I keep my faith intact, make sure my prayers are said

‘Cause I’ve learned that the monsters ain’t the ones beneath the bed

The wolf hunts a hungry man and the devil a lonely heart

A minefield of bad decisions lay hidin’ in the dark

Greed stalks, sickness steals, and pride lays a wicked trap

You can’t avoid ’em all, no, you gotta trust me on that

Anymore when a restless feelin’ keeps me up at night

Fallin’ on my knees is my new turnin’ on the light

I keep my faith intact, make sure my prayers are said

‘Cause I’ve learned that the monsters ain’t the ones beneath the bed

Daddy, check my closet, leave on the bathroom light

I smile and say “All clear” when I tuck him in for the night

But Daddy, I’m still scared, can I sleep with you instead?

I kneel down beside my little man and I bow my head

Anymore when a restless feelin’ keeps me up at night

Fallin’ on my knees is my new turnin’ on the light

I keep my faith intact, make sure my prayers are said

‘Cause I’ve learned that the monsters ain’t the ones beneath the bed

I truly believe Eric Church is right. The only way to deal with the monsters of life is to turn to the light.

The gospel of John begins with these words: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.” (John 1:1-5)

The darkness and monsters of this world will never overcome the light of Jesus Christ. So put your trust in the One who saves you and don’t be afraid of monsters.

Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, in those moments when I am afraid, help me to trust in your love and presence. I humbly ask that you walk with me through this life. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

In the end, the Light wins. That’s all that matters.

I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.

Tom Robbins