This Little Light of Mine

At one time or another, we've all sung that little song, “This little light of mine; I’m gonna let it shine.” We know it, but do we actually let our little lights shine, especially when there's always SOMETHING that wants to douse our lights out?

Listen to the key that the Apostle Paul gives us to keep our light shining: “Do all things WITHOUT complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world.” (Philippians 2:14-15). Just imagine the difference we could make in our homes, schools, neighborhoods and businesses if we didn't complain about this, that and the other, and instead, presented our "LIGHT" with cheer and joy? Our lights could alter the atmosphere wherever we go. Our lights could literally dispel darkness.

But what about those "light" extinguisers? It may be a negative comment or someone's bad mood or a surprising situation like a flat tire or a washing machine breaking down or a bad medical report or any other bad news coming our way. The "stuff of life" wields its water gun filled with doubt, worry, and negativity at us. What may have started out as an occasional little water gun squirt hitting our flame, soon becomes a super soaker blast of water endeavoring to douse the fire of energy and enthusiasm that we had. In those times, our little light can become just a flicker. We live in a world where so many people are in darkness and those people want to douse our lights with a "super soaker". But, you and I might just be the LIGHTS that cause their darkness to flee -- not so much by what we say....but what we do in spite of our own circumstances. They're watching how we demonstrate God's love, peace and joy -- right in the middle of some of our darkest times.

We can make a conscious effort to be sure our little lights are blazing all the time -- right in the midst of negativity and all the "stuff" being sent our way. St. Paul reminds us, "you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light." (Ephesians 5:8).

That's what the darkness needs -- in spite of our circumstances and the darkness around us -- it needs LIGHTS that conquer every opposing force. People will be thinking "How can they be so peaceful, full of joy and hope -- when I know they're going through the stuff of life, just like me?" Before long, they'll get it. They'll know it. And they'll want it, too! "In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." Matthew 5:16.