Light is Our Way of Life

WEEK 3

THIS WEEK’S INTRODUCTION

Jesus is the Light of the World.  We are the Light of the World.  We shine our light from the lampstands of our lives.  We nurture others with the fruit of our light:  all that is good, right, and true.  Light is who we are, and it is how we live.  Joy is the hallmark of our light, especially during the festivities of Christmas.  Nothing speaks joy more than gratitude.


Gratitude is so much more than making a list of all the good things in our lives.  Gratitude is so much more than feeling happy about the good things in our lives.  Gratitude goes further.  It gives thanks for what we have received.  It recognizes the blessings of the good things as good gifts from a good God.  Gratitude says thank you to God.


But gratitude also recognizes that others may not have those good gifts.  So gratitude shares.  When we are grateful, we share and give from our giftedness. When that is not physically possible, we pray, knowing that someone else can do what we are not able to do.  In a world that promotes grabbing and winning, we who are Jesus’ light live lives of joyous gratitude and sharing.

THIS WEEK’S SCRIPTURE

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness — on them light has shined.
You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder.  

                  — Isaiah 9:2-3

INVITATIONS

  • Reflect on this week’s scripture.  Are there any words or ideas that especially resonate with you or challenge you?

  • Spend a day this week as Gratitude Day.  Say thank you to God, your family, your friends, the cashier, your co-workers; wherever you are, say thank you.


  • Spend another day this week as Giving and Sharing Day.  Let all those thank you’s from yesterday open your eyes to ways that your can joyfully bless others.

  • Spend another day as Praying Day.  Let your recognition of the good gifts you have that others lack shape your prayer.

PRAYER

Jesus,

I am so grateful

for all the gifts of blessing in my life. Thank you.

Help me shine my light in sharing, giving, and praying for all who are in need.

                   Amen.