A Bright Light

 

While in Las Vegas a few weeks ago I had an interesting encounter. At the end of a long day of therapy, I walked out into the evening heat. I was looking forward to a quick meal and a visit with my husband. A man I'd never met was waiting for AAA to help him with a flat tire. He and the doctor were standing in the parking lot visiting. The doctor introduced us and then went on his way. 

While I waited for my husband and he on AAA, we had a brief chat. I'd never met the man who was also a patient at the clinic. He seemed very nice, and we visited for a few minutes. 

He stopped talking and fixed an intent gaze on me. I couldn't imagine what he was thinking. Then he said something surprising. 

"You're a bright light," he stated while lifting his lips in a whimsical smile.

I didn't know how to respond. A momentary silence settled between us. Finally, I responded, "I'll accept that. Thank you."

His smile grew even warmer.

Just then, my husband arrived, and I said farewell. I never saw him again, but his words have stayed with me. 

A Bright Light.

I can't know for certain what he meant, but wouldn't it be wonderful if I was a bright light in this dark world? A scripture comes to mind, one I've heard many times through the years.

Matthew 5:14 - 16

"You are the light of the world - like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket, instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your Heavenly Father."

I know that I am not always a shining light, in fact, I can sometimes be more of a candle snuffer. But I want to be a light. I want others to know the same Heavenly Father I do.

We all can be a light that reveals the love and hope of our Lord, which is needed especially in these dark and uncertain times. For no matter what evil may befalls us, it is not greater than God nor more powerful than Him. Our Father holds us in His hand, forever loved and protected.

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie Leon

Quiet Moments With God--Comfort In Our Father's Arms

Yesterday I dragged myself to church, only because I knew that my spirit needed to be there. I figured God very likely had something to say that I needed to hear. I was right. He met me there.

Life’s been difficult these past weeks and months. And as Christmas approached I found myself feeling distant from the “cheer” of the holiday and distant from my Lord. I longed to climb into my Father’s lap, yet he felt far away.

Hardships, disappointments and heartaches have assaulted my husband and me. We have a list of troubles and sometimes wonder what tomorrow will bring. My mind wants to dwell there—on the darkness, but God says, “No.”

Yesterday, our pastor said, “We are to be a light to the world, no matter what our circumstances.” God’s Word says we are to be shining stars. So, what happens when I can’t muster any light? God’s Word offers me the answer.

Philippians 4:4 – 8 says, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

Even when God feels far away, He’s not. He is always near. And He knows the beginning and the end and that my present circumstances are only a part of my journey. I can draw close to God. He is always available to His children. However, it is up to me to change my thinking and to trust Him.

I’ve walked with the Lord a good long while and have learned that often it’s the hardest days that produce the greatest rewards. And so I’m determined to change my thinking, and I look forward to all God has to teach me as He carries me along this path called life.

Grace and peace to you from God.

Bonnie