ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
December 3, 2019
Scripture: John 1:5
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.
Thought for the Day: I was speaking to a fellow clergy person a few months back, and this individual has had some wonderful moments in his/her current ministry along with a few struggles. I was surprised to hear how the struggles defined the ministry, entirely overshadowing the wonderful moments. Most all of us have rough patches, where negativity can cast a pretty long and oppressive shadow. Should that be the experience that define us? In the life of the church, one of our central convictions is how the darkness could not overcome the light. Winston Churchill said, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal; it is the courage to continue that counts.” As people of faith, we need to point to the light, even when it appears as nothing more than a spark. Then, with courage, we need to lead others toward the light despite the power of hopelessness that can so easily solidify them in their darkness.
Prayer: Provide us the courage, Mighty God, to point to the light and follow the light even when others have allowed the shadows to become their home. Amen.
