Reflect: I've been thinking about this old red lantern I once saw at a worship service. It was filled with kerosene and lit at the appropriate time to signify Christ being the light of the world. It was a very meaningful moment which wouldn't have been nearly as memorable without the lamp. I wonder how I can reflect this same light to the world. What would that look like in practical terms for my every day words and actions?
Read: "The whole meaning of the Christian community lies in offering a space
in which we wait for that which we have already seen. Christian
community is the place where we keep the flame alive among us and take
it seriously, so that it can grow and become stronger in us. In this
way we can live with courage, trusting that there is a spiritual power
in us that allows us to live in this world, without being seduced
constantly by despair, loneliness, and darkness." Excerpt by Henri Nouwen, taken from "Watch for the Light: Readings for Advent and Christmas" (various authors).
Imagine: A dark room full of flickering flames. Some flames are weak and struggling to stay lit. Other flames are burning steady. There is a central flame in the middle of the room - it is quite magnificent and beautiful; the walls reflect its dancing and mesmerizing shadows. As all flames move first toward each other and then toward the central flame together, the room is illuminated much more brightly. The weaker flames become stronger, the steady flames become more powerful. The combined lights begin to overtake and dispel the darkness.
Pray: God, I want to be a shining light in this world. I don't know what that looks like. But I'm willing for You to fill me with Your light. Show me how to reflect Your light. Give me courage to seize opportunities to shine for You.
Celebrate: Although the world can be a very dark place, we can know the Source of Light and reflect His light! Don't be afraid to shine!
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