There’s another one! Tiny lights flashed in the summer night and children’s laughter rang out as we raced about the yard, catching the elusive lightning bugs and carefully placing them in a jar… Those lights drew us to their source, as we viewed them with the eyes of a child.

It seems that humankind shares that fascination with lights. The light of the sun brings warmth and growth, the shine of moon lights the way at night, and stars draw us to imagined patterns in the night sky. Candles are lit as symbols of celebration, mourning, or worship. Bonfires welcome gatherings. A light in a window, porch, or yard welcomes a traveler home.

How often do I take time to view life’s simple spots of light? The smile of a friend, the quiet contentment of home after a day’s work, the presence of family around me, the fresh smell of rain or supper cooking… These are all lights to be treasured and recalled, especially on days in need of encouragement.

I like the way light is often used as a symbol or illustration of God, of His goodness and truth. Like those tiny flashes in the dark of night, we are drawn in wonder to His presence. God surrounds us. He is like the sun’s warmth when we feel the cold of despair and the moon that shines the way as we stumble in darkness. He welcomes us and helps us to find our way.

And wonder of wonders, as His presence fills and surrounds us, our own tiny flashes attract the attention of others. They too are drawn to that source of light. As children, we open the jar and exclaim with delight as those lightening bugs once again rise together into the night sky. Flash! Blink! Light of promise… and joy… and God’s presence.

John 1:5a “The light shines in the darkness…”

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