Optimist Roundtable
By Martha Sykes
Well, it was nice to see all of the Christmas lights this holiday season because they sure lit up a lot of dark nights. This time of year is always difficult for some people because it gets dark so early but here we are in January and the days will be getting a little longer now.
Thinking about light, we are reminded of the words of Jesus in the gospel of John where it says, “ I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life. When I am in the world, I am the Light of the world”. A lot of people say we are living in a dark world and it does look that way sometimes with all that is going on, that’s where Jesus can come into our lives and help brighten our days.
Even in the darkest moments of our lives, we can remember that Jesus will be that bright spot in the midst of those times. That is if we believe in Him and know that He is the light of the world.
It reminds me of some words that were written on a cellar wall during the holocaust. “ I believe in the sun even when it is not shining. I believe in love even when I cannot feel it. I believe in God even when He is silent.” During that time, people did not have much hope, but they still believed. Many people throughout the Scriptures believed that Jesus was going to be their hope, their light of the world, and their Savior.
In the book of Matthew, it says, “ you are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light so shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to the Father who is in heaven “.
Jesus reminds us that we can be a light in this world. Just like the song says,” this little light of mine I’m gonna let it shine” and that’s what we are to do. We are at the beginning of a new year and we can be a light in this dark world. Jesus will show us the way.
Keep that Christmas spirit in your heart this year and shine your light wherever you see a dark spot and light up someone’s life. To Him be all the glory!!
