By Marsha Turner-Shear of Bloomington, Indiana USA

But each of us was given grace according to the measure of Christ’s gift...We must no longer be children, tossed to and fro and blown about by every wind of doctrine, by people’s trickery, by their craftiness in deceitful scheming. But speaking the truth in love, we must grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ....

Snowfall and cold temperatures can vary from year to year in Indiana, but one aspect of winter that remains constant is short days. During January and February, darkness falls before 6:00 p.m., which is one reason I prefer not to teach evening classes at my community college.

Then I accepted an evening class for the first time in nine years. I enjoyed my students in this class, most of whom held down jobs during the day. They took their classes seriously, attended regularly, and submitted homework on time. But I did not enjoy walking to my car and driving home after class on those dark, cold winter nights.

One evening in March, as I climbed the stairs to my classroom at 6:00 p.m., I noticed something wonderful. It was still light outside! My heart felt a little lighter, and somehow, I was less tired as I drove home that night.

There’s something so hopeful about light. It’s not surprising that Jesus is often compared to light throughout the Bible. In the New Testament, Jesus refers to Himself as “the light of the world” (John 8:12).

Just as my heart felt lighter when I saw the light through the window last winter, so our hearts are lifted when we truly see Jesus as the Son of God, the one who gives us hope. No matter how dark and cold this world may be, in Jesus we have “seen a great light.” His light makes our hearts lighter and gives us strength to face each day.

Prayer Phrase

“I am the light of the world” (John 8:12).

Spiritual Practice

Light

Close your eyes and become centered with your breath. As you breathe gently in and out, reflect on the statement, “The light of God is in all things.” The light has a bright, soft beauty and radiates God’s healing love. The light of God reaches you and permeates you with a deep sense of peace. Rest in the light as it surrounds and fills you. Thank God that you live in God’s light, and it lives in you.

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.