There’s an old saying that I’ve heard all my life that says, “There’s a light at the end of the tunnel.” This saying seems to indicate that when I am going through a tough situation, I should have hope that it will end soon, and I will see improvement in the situation. This saying is from a quote by Ada Adams – “There is a light at the end of every tunnel. Some tunnels just happen to be longer than others.”   

Something I heard got me to thinking about this saying. I’ve heard so many people use it to comfort someone going through a hard time. But I wondered, is that really how I should think as a believer in Jesus Christ? Is He really waiting at the end of the tunnel? Is He there at the end when I finally make my way through the situation? Will I finally step into His light after I make my way through the muck and mire of this world?  

I quickly realized that Ada was wrong. 

The light is not at the end of the tunnel for me. It is in the tunnel with me; every hurt, every tear, every pain is wrapped in His love and light. I don’t have to make my way through whatever situation I am in alone. I draw so much comfort in knowing that my Jesus walks every step of this life with me whether I’m in a tunnel or on a mountaintop. It can be difficult to remember this when things are falling apart; but by focusing on Him I have light IN the tunnel. 

“The Lord is my light and my salvation – whom should I fear.” Ps. 27:1 (CSB)

“Arise and shine for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord shines over you.”  Is. 60:1 (CSB)

“Jesus spoke to them again; ‘I am the light of the world.  Anyone who follows me will never walk in the darkness again but will have the light of life.'”  Jn. 8:12 (CSB)