Research shows that the sunniest places in Canada are southern Alberta and Saskatchewan, a swath of land that runs from Calgary to Estevan boasting over 2375 hours of bright sunshine annually. (For reference, that’s about an hour more per day than Toronto.) Often the big skies are blue, the clouds are sparse, and the sun is bold. However, some find it difficult to fully enjoy that prairie perk because of the cold. With winter temperatures regularly dipping below -40°, many choose to “appreciate” the sunshine from indoors. The potential for frostbite can serve as a significant obstacle to the enjoyment of regularly clear skies. 

The book of 1 John makes it clear that God wants his children to enjoy the life-giving warmth of his light and love. He wants us to walk in close fellowship with himself (1:3). Unfortunately, many believers simply “appreciate” its cloudless clarity from afar. Why? Because there are obstacles that distract and discourage, realities that can, if we’re not careful, keep us from fully enjoying the divine gift of intimacy with God.