I have been thinking a lot about light, here in the dark and hungry months of winter.
The concept of bringing light into dark places is one that ended up being a somewhat major theme in a piece I delivered to a publisher earlier this month. It resonated with me, this thought of light shining in all the dark places, doing good for others, shining so they see they are not alone. I kind of want it incorporated into a tattoo.
Last week the sermon at church was on John 1:1-13, with a strong focus on light. Pastor Nathaniel spoke about John 1:5, which is one of my husband’s very favorite pieces of Scripture.
Jesus, the Light of the World, also told his followers that WE are the light of the world. We are to shine, to drive out darkness, to be lights to lead others home.
On Monday we piled the kids into the van and drove around to look at Christmas lights. I don’t force them to do too much on my account, but this is one tradition that we do because it’s Mama’s favorite.
I really enjoy the big displays, but I also get joy out of the houses that have one string of white lights or a strand or two wrapped around a tree. The lights in the darkness that we put up, to remind people that they are not alone.
But you know…sometimes light is hard to find.
My oldest came down sick today and he and I are not at the big family gathering with everyone else. My goddaughter is sick today, too. A good friend shared that there have been several sad medical emergencies at their church. Everything costs too much and everyone is tired and the world is…well. The world is *gestures*.
And yet.
And yet.
This season I’m taking joy in light. There is the Light, and there are lights, and we are lights.
Hallelujah.
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