A Light in the Darkness: Introduction, Day 3

Several years ago the Houston Chronicle newspaper, along with other sponsoring corporations, hosted a series of lectures by influential women. They came from a variety of fields - politics, entertainment, literature, science. One of my daughters and I had tickets to that series of lectures and enjoyed hearing each of the strong women who spoke. However, one particularly stands out in my mind.



The speaker of the evening was Maya Angelou. The event was taking place in Jones Hall. For the non-Houstonians reading, Jones Hall has a capacity of 3000. That night, the venue was full. The crowd was primarily female so you can imagine the buzz (actually more of a roar) as women found their seats and talked with friends. When the time for the event to begin arrived, without fan fare, without introduction, Maya Angelou strode onto the stage. She is an imposing figure - tall and straight. Without waiting for the din of noise to subside, in her deep, throaty voice, she began to sing, "This little light of mine. I'm gonna let it shine. This little light of mine. I'm gonna let it shine. Let it shine, all the time, let it shine." The crowd quickly quieted ... and this amazing woman began to tell her most remarkable story.



Ms Angelou understood that, wherever your life path takes you, let your light shine. Even if it is just a little light - let it shine. Remember, God is light. He allows us to experience light. Now - let it shine.



Jesus said it first. In Matthew 5:16 He says, "Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven."



Read 1 Peter 2: 9 - 10. You have been carried from _______ into ______. What does that mean to you? Does it make any difference in the way you interact with other people? Family? What about at church? Or at work? In committee meetings? With other team moms or at your child's school? What does it mean to you to be privileged to live in the light?



Close your work today by reading the following:

Ephesians 5: 8 - 10

Philippians 2: 14 - 15

Shine like stars in the universe ... Shine!