My Friends,

People are looking everywhere for help, support, and guidance for the challenges of life, especially in these days of darkness clouded by natural disasters, a global pandemic, social injustices, and partisan politics.

So, what are people of good faith to do?

For starters, we should not give in to the darkness; we should combat darkness with light.

John begins his Gospel with that image, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.”

Being even more specific, Jesus says it of himself, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.”

We are people of the light because the light of the universe burns inside us.

Jesus says it plain, “You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hidden. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.”

Jesus gives us his message of love and salvation, of freedom and justice, of grace and mercy, and calls us to good works, a life of helping and serving that changes lives and comforts those in need.

So, what brings light to your life that guides you through the darkness to a place where hope and joy reside? What shines daily in your life that provides joy, peace, and hope to the people you meet?

Frankly, I don’t know of a church that has come through so much darkness itself over the last several years with as much strength as this church.

God is blessing you because even though there have been some tough times, you have tried to be a blessing by continually turning your hearts and minds outward, reaching out to others, to be the light of the world, to let your good works shine for the glory of God.

Grace and peace,
Bruce Lancaster