Be a Light in 2023
“There was a man sent from God whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him.”
John1:6-7
As I grow older, the years appear to speed by faster. Here we are once again, almost on the eve of another New Year. So, do we look backward or forward? This is a good time to go exploring with a clean sheet of paper.
I use this opportunity to look at what I accomplished in the past year. Did I learn from the mistakes that I made? Did I treat and respect all people in the same manner, recognizing their differences? Have I been a light to others and helped dispel their darkness? Have I been a good Christian?
The Christian life is about living and trusting God. It is about having faith. If we truly and honestly want God in our lives, then we must be a light in the darkness to others.
There is so much brokenness and conflict in the world. We need to be intentionally cheerful and willing to serve others. We need to be civil in our conversations with those who have different beliefs. We must learn from each other and look for common ground: be non-judgmental, forgive, listen, engage and welcome.
I encourage you to look forward and intentionally be a light in 2023. Light brings sight and understanding. Think of the ways you can enhance your life and those of others. Light purifies, cheers, gives security, brings hope, provides growth and shows the way to worship in church. Light is a joy to the world.
Be a joy and light to the world. Just as the shepherds and wise men followed the light of the star to Jesus, why not look forward and help others see the light and overcome their darkness?
