Over the past few days I had a wonderful time of refreshing and healing. Last week I had inflamed an old injury which subsequently was causing much pain. Actually I was perfectly fine as long as I didn’t sit, stand, move or remain still. The trouble was that I had started to run short of options.
Since my original plans for Thanksgiving included a 4 hour drive to Lafayette, Louisiana to spend time in Cajun country it was time to modify my plans. I was initially disappointed since I had been dreaming of some seriously good cooking; I knew I needed a shorter journey. So at the last moment I changed my plans and opted for Brenham, Texas. Closer and a wonderfully relaxing and beautiful part of Texas, I always recommend Brenham as a great place to get away.
One of the things that I looked forward to was taking some night photography of several churches up in the surrounding countryside. There are a group of churches in the area that are each over a hundred years old. This is a great testimony to the founders and succeeding generations of each of these congregations. Well maintained, basic and rich in spiritual history. Additionally, I had discovered on the website for Washington County that these historic buildings are now part of lighted tour that can be viewed at night. I love night photography and prepared for the evenings shooting.
As I wound my way through the countryside and rolling hills I was soon disappointed to find darkened buildings where there should have been lighted buildings. This far out in the country combined with rain clouds moving in gave a new meaning to the word “dark.” On the rare occasions that I passed a farmhouse their lights stood out in brilliance. After a few more trips I conceded that the lighted tour was operating in “extreme green” mode. This was great for the ecology, saving energy and all, but leaving something to be desired as a night photo opportunity.
As I returned to the comfort of my hotel I began thinking of Matthew 5:16, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” I could not help but think how even a limited amount of light on these buildings would have caused them to stand out for miles amidst the darkness. Then I began to think of how much more the truth of a godly life and witness stands out in a cold world of spiritual darkness.
As I prepared for sleep and pondered the many blessings we each have, I thought again of the power of light in the midst of darkness. As I move from a time of Thanksgiving to the Christmas season, I pray that each of us will be certain to let our light shine. May each of us not be a silent witness, but a bold and committed source of light wherever we are and wherever we travel.
What one thing can you do this week to shine for Christ?
Copyright 2010 © Charles Lyons
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
