Keep the light on
By Steve Nailor
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
––Matthew 5:14-16 (NIV)
In January, I was blessed to be invited to lead a worship service at the beginning of Epiphany, one of the oldest festival days of the Christian church.
Imagine the wise men following the light through the darkness to deliver their gifts.
We are in a dark time now with the coronavirus. Schools are taught online. Department stores are closed and only essential services are available.
I see this virus as a darkness in our lives, but Jesus tells his disciples to not put their light under a bowl. He says we are the light of the world, we light our light and put it on a lamp stand for all to see.
Yes, we are to keep our distance, wash our hands regularly, and sanitize often, but we must let our light shine so others can see it.
Darkness is not an upbeat topic, but God assures us that we will come out on the other side.
Engage daily in Bible study and pray.
Continue relating to others. Call someone and brighten their day, as well as yours.
As Tom Bodett used to say in his commercials, “We’ll leave the light on for you.”
O Lord, as I look for two sets of footprints in the sand, one mine and the other yours, assure me that when I can only see one set, it’s because my vision is limited. Amen
Steve Nailor, president
National Association of Conference Presidents of UM Men