Let Your Light Shine

Let Your Light Shine
Now that the Winter Solstice has passed, the amount of daylight is gradually increasing in what has been another long, dark year. Much like increased darkness in our days, months of despair can rob us of our confidence, hope, and sense of direction. Like darkness, despair which is most often perceived as an opposing force is rather the absence of hope in our lives, just as darkness is actually the absence of light. We must learn to accept despair for what it actually is, the absence of hope. It’s from that truth that we can begin to find our way out of the darkness. Just as the light of a single candle can transform the darkness of a dark room, so too, can a mustard seed of hope can transform the despair in our lives.
Friends, we must be intentional in developing an abiding sense of hope in our lives during our days of darkness. There are many sources of hope in one’s life, such as faith, community, friends, family, even the hope found at the start of a new day. It doesn’t have to be a grand or dramatic plan, just a simple glimmer of hope will often suffice. Just an intentional thought that the darkness is temporary will often let a glimmer of light in. Never underestimate the impact of the light of Christ, which dwells in the life of each of you as believers. During these dark days of ongoing fear and anxiety, just a simple phone call or card can provide the hope that can help someone overcome darkness and despair. Friends, never underestimate the power of that glimmer of hope, or the enlightening impact of the light of Christ within you. So “let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven (Matt. 5-16).”
Christmas Blessings,
Fr. Greg+

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