The Master’s Minute

Helpful Tools and Tips

The Master’s Minute – Light in the Darkness

by

I’m guessing that I’m not the only one who is feeling afflicted by darkness. Currently, we are in the season of darkness. December and January are literally dark months. This time of year we have between nine and ten hours of daylight, and the other 14 to 15 hours are darkness.

In addition, we are in the 11th month of the COVID-19 pandemic with all the limitations we face due to this coronavirus. Also, our country continues to navigate ongoing racial tensions. Then to top everything off, we have political unrest that escalated into a mob storming the Capitol Building this past Wednesday.

Even a fairly optimistic person can start feeling a little down with all that’s going on, and I find myself pondering how to personally respond. My initial reactions are some of the following: a verbal rant to anyone who will listen, throwing my hands up in complete despair, or even a point of deep sadness and lament.

I’ve recently been reading through the gospel of John and have observed that the topic of light is an ongoing theme in this book. I’m fully convinced that being a light in this dark world is at least a part of our life purpose.

What are some practical ways we can practice being a light in the midst of the current COVID limitations? Here is brief list I’ve compiled:

    • Smile – Even behind a mask people can see the smile in your eyes, and it can make you feel better, too.
    • Call a friend – In light of the increased use of electronic communication and the limited face to face interactions due to COVID, hearing a familiar voice can quickly brighten our day.
    • Prepare and deliver a meal – Good food is a sure-fire way to lift our spirits.
    • Send a note of encouragement – There is something powerful and motivating about reading encouraging words written to you.
    • Donate extra money to charity – There are so many great charities doing wonderful things for others. We can participate in these good works by simply sending the charity a donation.

It is my experience that when I intentionally shine a light on someone else, I in turn find myself brightened as well. Where have you experienced light in this dark season?