In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it. John 1:5

We live in dark days.  There are wars and rumors of wars, there are battles and violence.  Our country is in political turmoil, people are constantly afraid, angry, upset and on edge.  This does not even take into account the actual issues that need to be addressed and the injustice and evil that is present in our lives.  We live in dark days.

When you walk into a dark room, what is the first thing you do?  Turn on a light.  The old saying “why curse the darkness when you can light a candle” is very appropriate for our times.  Yes, things are bad and I am very worried about the course of the world events, but I can do things around me.  I can light a candle of hope for people near me.  I can bring my light into every situation I enter.  Will my candle change the issues in the Middle East?  No, but the funny thing about light is this – the more light you have, the less darkness.  If we all do our part and light our candles, if we all go about and spread our hope with each other and with those in greatest need of hope we can make a change, or as Jesus says “Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.”

It only takes a spark.  In your journeys this week, be the light.

Pastor Bill