Shining On - September 22
Today’s Readings AM Psalm 69:1-23(24-30)31-38; PM Psalm 73
2 Kings 1:2-17; 1 Cor. 3:16-23; Matt. 5:11-16
During the height of the pandemic, my husband Malcolm and I had good friends who seemed to maneuver the difficulties of that time better than most, and certainly better than we were. At one point, I asked our friends what was sustaining them. They mentioned a few important things like staying connected to family in the creative ways many of us employed during that difficult time. They became most animated talking about the innovative ways their exercise class found to continue to meet. Racks of weights were rolled out into the parking lot; yoga mats covered the pavement; and instructors found ways to shout out instructions in the dark of the early hours of the day.
Our friends’ enthusiasm was contagious and after a long haul of at-home-exercise videos, we decided to try their gym. I began attending an early class and was warmly welcomed by the instructor. She encouraged me, was patient with me, and at the end of most classes, would connect me with others. For the past 18 months, I have watched this inspiring instructor not only teach about exercise, but perhaps more importantly, engage her gifts for creating safe community. Each week as new persons try the class, she gently enfolds them in her care and entrusts them to the rest of us who follow the lead she models of acceptance and kindness. In the midst of a worldwide loneliness pandemic, every morning a group of us come together to sweat it out and share our lives, nurtured by our faithful instructor.
Jesus says, “You are the light of the world…let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.”
Each human being is a unique expression of God, made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27). As we humbly and generously offer the gifts God has given us to offer, the fullness of God’s nature is revealed. When we hide our light, the world is denied an aspect of our Creator that God desires to reveal for the healing of the world, and the healing of our own lives. If there is a place in your life where you have been timid about shining your light, my prayer is that you bravely, humbly radiate for the glory of God.
Grace and peace,
Mary Bea+
Questions for reflection: Is there a place in your life where God is encouraging you to bravely, humbly offer more of yourself/your gifts? What is one step you can take in that direction? Who has inspired you in the past by joyfully sharing of themself?