When he was at table with them, he took the bread. He blessed the bread, and broke it, and gave it to them. And their eyes were opened and they recognized him!(Luke 24:13-35)

Wednesday, January 27, 2021

Brave enough to be the light

 


In the book of Hebrews we hear how we’re supposed to worship and live as faithful Christians today: “We must consider how to rouse one another to love and good works.”  (Hebrews 10:19-25)

In the psalms we read, “A lamp to my feet is your word, a light to my path.”  (Psalm 119:105)

And in the Gospel from Mark, we’re encouraged to let our light shine, taking care not to keep it hidden under a bushel basket.  We’re reminded that there is nothing hidden and to make all things visible; that nothing is secret except to come to light.  Furthermore, we’re called to listen carefully and to act accordingly.  (Mark 4:21-25)

This past week has been filled with much excitement as we said goodbye to past leadership and welcomed new leadership for our country.  For a lot of us, it’s a time of hope and promise as well as anxiety and concern for the problems and issues that surround us.  Our scriptures seem to dwell on the importance of ‘light’.  In her presentation at Joe Biden’s inauguration, the young poet laureate, Amanda Gorman, gave us this image of ‘light’ in her stirring poem, The Hill We Climb.

‘When day comes, we step out of the shade aflame and unafraid.  The new dawn blooms as we free it.  For there is always light.  If only we’re brave enough to see it.  If only we’re brave enough to be it.’

The light of Christ shines brightly within each one of us.  We’re called to share this light with those around us, whether it be those we agree or disagree with.  Sharing the light of Christ with others takes courage, determination, faith and love.  For so many months and years it seems we have been surrounded by the darkness of despair and negativity.  The gospel message, the message of our new leadership, and the hope of the coronavirus vaccine (that my wife and I were blessed to get today), are just a few of the ways I feel bathed in the Light of Christ.

Let’s rouse one another to love and good works.  Let’s keep our lamps lit and shining.  Let us always be brave to not only see the light but also to BE IT!

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