Wednesday, December 2, 2015

Being Able to Recognize Light

It struck me today that in order to know what light is, we have to be able to recognize darkness.  It is in true darkness that we understand the importance of light.  Light is what gives us hope in darkness.  Light dispels darkness and fears.  Fears subside as light pours into an area that was once full of darkness.

"Too often our answer to the darkness
is not running toward Bethlehem
but running away.
We ought to know by now that we can't see 
where we're going in the dark.
Running away is rampant. . .
separation is stylish:
separation from mates, from friends, from self.
Run and tranquilize,
don't talk about it,
avoid.
Run away and join the army
of those who have already run away.
When are we going to learn that Christmas Peace
comes only when we turn and face the darkness?
Only then will we be able to see
the Light of the World."

This season don't give in to the urge to run.  Don't give in to the need to tranquilize your feelings or thoughts.  It's too easy to busy ourselves into not thinking about things that take time and effort.  But you know as well as I do that those things are the things that are worthwhile.  We have these moments, these days, these people in our lives...and they are fleeting.  Don't sprint away from the light...embrace it.  Sit in the darkness, shut your mouth, open your eyes, and step toward Bethlehem.  It's a journey that will leave you forever changed...this season and beyond.

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