Light

It’s that time of year again when we begin to notice that the days are getting longer. Spring is near! The days seem to be getting brighter. Dispositions are more cheerful, hope abounds and a sense of wellbeing returns. The sunlight is essential for life. The sunlight is needed for warmth. The sunlight brings back the beauty of color to our gardens and landscapes.  Without light we wouldn’t be able to see and enjoy all the many the wonders of life.

The artist needs the spectrum of light to create a masterpiece. The surgeon needs a bright light to bring healing to a patient. The driver needs lights to navigate through the city.

Light brings beauty; light offers health; light keeps us safe.  It’s no wonder Jesus said: “I am the light of the world.” For all that light offers for us, is reflected in the very nature of God’s love and care for each of us. Each time you turn a light switch on, take a moment to thank God for the hope, love, protection and comfort that light brings and remember that God wants his light to shine in every part of your life.

The Psalmist begins Psalm 27 inspired by the light of God:

The Lord is my light and my salvation—

whom shall I fear?

The Lord is the stronghold of my life—

of whom shall I be afraid?

..One thing I ask from the Lord,

this only do I seek:

that I may dwell in the house of the Lord

all the days of my life,

to gaze on the beauty of the Lord

and to seek him in his temple.

I leave you with a prayer that was prayed during a recent chapel service:

Gracious Father, Protector of those who hope in you.

You are light, and hope, and strength for the weary and the anxious. Calm our souls, and give us the comfort of your healing hand. Grant that your servants who seek your face in times of trouble, may glimpse your beauty, and may dwell in your house, now and forever.

Amen.

Written by Chaplain Lane Skoglund