The family devotional for last week reminded us that Jesus is the light of the world. Even when we are afraid, when the state of the world feels scary, when contentiousness seems to rule how we relate with one another, still, Jesus is our light.

Light has been a symbol of divine presence for millennia. Lanterns were lit in the Tabernacle in early Jewish celebrations. In the Temple in Jerusalem, candles burned to symbolize God's presence. When Jesus proclaimed in John 8:12, "I am the light of the world," he was telling us that he is the presence of God in the world. Now, after Jesus' resurrection and ascension, we know that the Holy Spirit carries the light of the world to us wherever we are.

We also carry that light within us and as Christians, it is our responsibility to let our light shine in the world. (In baptism we receive a lit candle with the instructions, "Let your light so shine before others that they may see your good works and glorify your father in Heaven.") In these days of fear, contention and anxiousness, let your light shine. Be the light for others. When you hear threatening words, shine the light. When you read hateful comments, shine the light. When you see someone in distress, shine the light.

Remember, you are a beloved child of God.

In Christ, Pastor Sarah

P.S. The Council and Covid Response Team are meeting on October 5th to discuss where and how to worship this fall and winter. If you have not yet completed the Worship Survey, please do so by October 3rd.