Dear Friends of the Chapel,
I was thinking again about how essential it is that we stand present and ready with each other to navigate our way through both joyful and challenging times. One of the gifts of being part of a faith community is that we have others to call on and welcome into our journey, and we can enter and support theirs as well. I am so grateful for the times that people of the church have spoken life to me!
As I was rereading the book “Ladder to the Light” by Steven Charleston, I was touched again by the power of one of his stories. It reads like this:
“Imagine you walked onto a large open field at night when there was no moon. Standing there silently in the darkness were hundreds of people each holding an unlit candle. Only you were carrying a candle that was burning, a single light alone. How quickly would the field be glowing once you used your candle to light others, and they used their candles to do the same, and all the people began sharing their light with those around them? You may never know exactly, but you do know over time what the outcome will be: a field aglow in the darkness where people can see one another clearly. Your life matters. What you have started will carry on. You are a source of light. You help others in ways that will continue. You are a single candle, but you are stronger than darkness.”
Jesus was and is the light of the world, and he places that light in us to shine and share and encourage each other. How will we live out his words?
“You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. People do not light a lamp and put it under the bushel basket; rather, they put it on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16 NRSVUE
My thanks to Jessy Allen and Karla Williams for preaching while I am on vacation, and to the elders and other leaders who will continue to build this community of faith while I am gone November 5-18. Please reach out to the office, an elder, or Jessy if you would like to talk with them.
Celebrating Giving With You,
Pastor Donna