Let the Light Shine Through

The Scriptures define a saint differently than most people. We tend to save the label for those we deem as super-spiritual, or for those who have accomplished many good works for God’s Kingdom. If you are Roman Catholic, a person must go through a rigorous examination after they die to become a saint. (Too bad the person is not around to enjoy the elevation.) 

In the Scriptures, the designation of a saint is simple. It means “one who is sanctified or holy.”  Now, before we begin getting our measuring sticks out for the judging contest, let us consider that every one of us—you and me—have sinned and we continually fall short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23) So, our self-appointed halo needs to come off our sense of worthiness and we should cast it at the foot of the Cross. 

The Painter

One day, a man who was a painter approached me. He was covered with specks of paint that had splattered on his face, clothing, and hands. He was an older gentleman–socially quiet and observant. He was also a reader of philosophy. Few would know it, but his portfolio of reading was filled with old and modern views of life, meaning, and eternity. All of the vast reading he had done had failed to answer the big questions of life. His soul was restless and he was intent on finding answers.

As we began talking, I realized the exposure he had to various philosophies. He was trying to bring them together into a cohesive understanding of existence and life. This search was weighing heavy on his mind. We engaged in discussion about the many philosophers he had studied. I listened and then discussed the self-defeating arguments these men gave in their writings.

Once he realized the truth of what I shared, he asked me how I saw things. I simply pointed him to the message of the gospel, lifted up Jesus Christ as the ultimate reality and answer to life, and answered his various questions. The scales fell from his eyes and he surrendered his life to Christ. Through faith, he stepped into a relationship with the Lord. He saw the majestic beauty of the life, death, burial, and resurrection of the Lamb of God.

A New Beginning

“Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing…” (Isaiah 43:18-19) Americans love ‘new things’—from new cars and new jobs to new houses and new spouses. It doesn’t matter as long as it is new. In today’s ‘me-first’ generation, words like consistency, steadfastness, commitment, and priority have become meaningless.

What do we find this time of year? In the tradition of the yearly routine, New Year’s resolutions will be made by millions of people. They will last for about 2 days, give or take a day. We need something new—a new body, a new membership, a new pair of shoes. The list is as long as the gossip at the local coffee house. After spending money we did not have, on people we hardly ever see, buying things they do not need, many of us are already looking for something new. Hmmm… maybe the real issue is us!

The Lord has made the rhythm and seasons of life to coincide with our need for something new. Every twenty-four hours we are given a new day. Each one is filled with hope and promise to work harder or be a new person. Each morning we are given the opportunity to be a better husband, wife, or parent. This year’s fashions will not make us new, they only cover up the same old ugly attitude with attractive colors. Ugly is still ugly regardless of how we dress it up. 

Casting Shadows

As I looked up from my time of reading and praying, I noticed shadows reflecting upon the wall adjacent from where I was sitting in my recliner. The sun was breaking over the horizon and piercing through the front window. In its path was the small manger scene my wife had placed in our living room. The shadows were intriguing to me as they appeared unique and more distinct. I quickly snapped a photo before the sun changed the image.

The shadow scene revealed a special element as the window pane created a Cross that was grounded at the place where the babe in the manger was located. All things begin with the birth of Christ–purpose, meaning, value, love, and truth. That first Noel from so many years ago left us a simple scene that continues to echo to the hearts of those seeking understanding. Through the birth of Christ, the Lord cast a shadow large enough for all who will humble themselves before Him. God did not leave us without answers!

Queen Elizabeth’s Last Hill

“You got to walk that lonesome Valley. You got to walk it for yourself.” (Mississippi John Hurt, 1883-1966, Blues singer)

After Queen Elizabeth’s II death, I looked through many photos and events of her life. I love history because it helps to reveal the interconnectedness of generations and events. Elizabeth was elegant and beautiful throughout her life. However, there is one photo that struck me the moment I saw it. 

This photo is from 51 years ago as she climbed a hill in the countryside of Scotland. The background is gorgeous and the photo is stunning. A half-century ago she climbed that hill. This year, she climbed the hill into the presence of God. 

We all will make that journey… some sooner than expected, and others later than expected. And, as bluesman Mississippi John Hurt says in his song, “We got to walk it for ourself.” Each of us will walk the trail, the mountain, or the valley as our life winds down. Sometimes the end of life is not a soft landing; however, for those who belong to Christ, the final rest is always in presence of our Savior.