A Beacon of Hope

Ah! Take me away….to Prince Edward Island! It was beyond fascinating and delightful. We were quite proud of ourselves for navigating the island on our own. I can see why so many travelers put PEI on their bucket list. Rugged coastlines, lush landscapes, and the iconic lighthouses. This picturesque haven, with those charming lighthouses, holds a wealth of metaphors that invite us to reflect on faith, hope, and the guiding light of Christ.

Charlottetown is the vibrant heart of Prince Edward Island, its colorful buildings and historic streets radiating with warmth and creativity. In this beautiful place, the spirit of Anne of Green Gables lives on, weaving a tale of wonder and inspiration.

Prince Edward Island is home to 65 lighthouses, each standing tall along the rugged coastline, shining a beacon of hope through the darkness. Their lights guide sailors home and provides safety to those navigating treacherous waters.

Doesn’t that LIGHT remind us of the LIGHT of Christ who is our lighthouse – our steadfast tower. Jesus’ light shines 24/7 – in our times of joy and laughter, and even more so as He shines a path of hope and safety through the darkest storms of our lives.

Once upon a time, lighthouse keepers were the unwavering guardians of these beacons. Theirs was not a role for the faint of heart, for it demanded relentless dedication, a willingness to brave the fiercest storms, and a commitment to keep the light shining for those who relied on it.

The keepers lived within the lighthouse, tending to the lamp every night, and ensuring it stayed lit until dawn. Their days were filled with maintaining the lighthouse. They were sailors, mechanics, and builders, sacrificing personal comforts for the safety of others.

Doesn’t that sound a lot like Jesus – Who is our ultimate lighthouse, providing an eternal light that guides us home? Psalm 27:1 reminds us, "The Lord is my LIGHT and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?" In Jesus, we find refuge and the assurance that no matter how dark the storm, His light will lead us safely to shore.

Just as the lighthouse keepers ensured the beacon was always shining, we too are called to be lightkeepers for others. Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:14, "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden."

As followers of Christ, we carry His light within us, guiding those around us through our words, actions, and love. I’ll never forget the lighthouses and the keepers’ dedication of PEI. They will be a reminder of Jesus’ unwavering light and the keepers’ serving tirelessly.

Perhaps we need some maintenance on our lights and then turn up the LIGHT source so we illuminate the paths for others who are navigating some stormy seas.

“This little light of mine. I’m gonna’ let it shine!”