It's been a long December and there's reason to believe maybe this year will be better than the last. Thankfully the last 20-or-so months have left a pretty low bar, so improvement is hopefully inevitable. As we look towards 2022, I pray that we are hopeful that things get better on their own, but also recognize that we should take an active role in making the lives of those around us better.

Jesus in Matthew 5:14-16 says this, “14 You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

As Christians we have been called to be a light to the world, and we are called to share that light with the world around us. There are times we feel unworthy or times we feel like we need to hide who we are, and it is in those times that we need to let our lights shine the most. The smallest flame can light even the darkest caves.

When you feel unworthy or unloved remind yourself that the Lord doesn’t see as you do: we look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart. We want to judge by outward accomplishments or through comparison to other people we think have perfect lives. However, this is something to which you were never called. You can’t shine someone else’s light, can’t live someone else’s life, you can only be you!

And God loves you for that! This year I hope you can shine your light a little brighter. I hope you can help illuminate the joy that is in your heart for the people around you. And should you feel that light getting a little bit dim turn your face back towards the source. The light inside you is a beacon let’s people see you giving glory to your Father in heaven.

Shine on, the world needs the light