Carry The Light

Photo by Dyu - Ha on Unsplash

The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. John 1:9

I admire St. Augustine. Before he became a bishop and theologian, he went on a quest to find faith in his life of struggle and uncertainty. He eventually saw the light and wrote in a prayer to the Lord, “Our heart is restless until it rests in you.” Those words, carried into my heart by my friends, helped me get through the rigors of seminary. And what I have learned through life struggles is that with other people helping us and loving us, there is an unstoppable light that reveals God’s grace and mercy in the world. We carry that light of caring and invite others into the light as St. Paul wrote, “Live as children of light ...” Ephesians 5:8

We are called both to be the light and to carry the light. There is a concept called tikkun olam based on the creation story that God’s light was so vast and powerful that the special vessels meant to contain it shattered, and there are still shards holding this light that must be recovered today.  The words tikkun olam in Hebrew mean “world repair” through acts of kindness which unleash the light. As St. Augustine wrote, “God loves each of us as if we were the only person on earth, yet God loves all, as God loves each.” The light is for all people.

We carry the light and shine it into other’s lives. In these days of chaos, faith, hope, and love make a difference. Nothing can put that light out. We can share it and not be less, but be more, because the light multiplies by Jesus’ promise, “The nations will walk by his light. Revelation 21:24

Carry on, Pastor Andrea