Finding the Light
If there is one expression that best describes my approach to life, it is the belief that there is always a light at the end of the tunnel.
"Where is the way to the dwelling of light, and where is the place of darkness, that you may take it to its territory and that you may discern the paths to its home?" - Job 38:19-20
In today's reading from Job, God pounds sense into the little man who had longed to hear an explanation for his misery. It is as if God is saying, "You just have no idea do you, Job?"
I think Job's problem was that he expected the light. For him, the norm was sunshine and clear skies all the time. He got used to it and so when the darkness came, he was taken by surprise.
Each day, I encounter people who live with an alternative, of not opposite view. When the light is found, they rejoice and praise God.
But unlike Job, many do not complain. They have grown accustomed to the darkness and live in the shadows. For them, a glimmer of light is a gift, something to be treasured and savored.
Instead of moaning the loss when a cloud blots out the sun, they rejoice in its passing.
I am so blessed to be involved in a ministry that reminds me of the great light of God that glows within us all. We can counter the darkness if we choose, bringing the light to the corners and shadows where it is sorely needed.
In the process, I discover the light anew, like a child staring at a flame, and I see the sparkles in the eyes of those who appreciate every little expression of love and caring. For when we feed the hungry, clothe the naked, comfort the sick, visit the imprisoned and shut-in, we part the darkness and foster hope.
In today's Gospel, Jesus tells the parable of the lost sheep for whom the shepherd leaves the flock. We are all called to be that shepherd, bringing the lost back into the fold. How we do that depends on our talents and abilities, those gifts of the Spirit that we all received.
And when we bring someone from the darkness into the light, we will feel the joy of God showering upon us, and that joy will renew us with energy for the next time.
So, today, as we reflect on the tearing of the light with a shattering blow of darkness that affected all of us to some degree fifteen years ago, let us remember the light is the gift and the darkness is what is destroyed when it is allowed to shine.
Come. Let us split the darkness together.
More to come...