Darkness and light

Psalm 139, Domine, probasti, explores the the omnipresence of God.  Two verses from this psalm are often read at Evening Prayer.  I read them almost daily.

"If I say, "Surely the darkness will cover me, and the light around me turn to night," Darkness is not dark to thee, O Lord; the night is as bright as the day; darkness and light to thee are both alike." Psalm 139: 10-11

 These are comfortable words.  How often do I say those words, "surely the darkness will cover me"!  The Lord, creator of light (Genesis 1:3), is not overcome by darkness.   The Psalmist earlier states, in the words of the modern BCP, how the Lord presses upon upon us from behind and before.  The Lord's presence is intense and sure.  As children we are sometimes afraid of darkness; in youth, darkness can seem to be a friend; in despair, darkness can seem to be our only companion - even the Psalmist says so.  In old age, we once again fear the darkness.  But the Lord is beyond light and darkness, comprehending all.  And the Lord is with us.