“Post tenebras lux” is a Latin phrase that translates, “after darkness, light,” meaning that even after a period of darkness, there will eventually be light. The phrase became a motto for the Protestant Reformation, symbolizing returning to the “light” of biblical truth after a period of religious darkness.
Much of the book of 1 Samuel volleys between darkness and light – between narrating events in Saul’s life and parallel events in the life of David. The contrast between the two is as stark as darkness and light. Chapter 28 of 1 Samuel narrates the darkest period of the book, as King Saul, abandoned by God, sank into the deepest darkness of his career. Saul’s rebellion turned to witchcraft as he sought a medium to bring back Samuel from the dead. David too was greatly distressed; but unlike Saul, he strengthened himself in the Lord his God (30:6) and the Lord promised and delivered victory. As David increases and the sun rises on “Twilight Kingdom,” David, though far from perfect, will not become a king like Saul. Unlike Saul who lost his father’s donkeys, David shepherds his people well. Unlike Saul, whose best idea was to call on a witch, David goes to the right person, using the right means, for the right purpose (see 30:6-8). As the man after God’s heart, David finds himself in the Lord’s favor – his steps divinely guided. Chapter 30 is a celebration of David right after Saul’s darkest time and right before chapter 31 reports the demise of Saul.
