Light Breaks Through

 


Following a barrage of Christmas-related functions and parties (I think I'm done apart from the actual day), I've been struck by the idea that light breaks through in different ways. Here are some examples:

1. A shaft of light, strong and steady, shines through some crack or gap in the curtains

2. Clouds separate or move on their way, creating heat and brilliance

3. Candles flicker in a room that would otherwise be dark

4. A rainbow adorns the sky

5. Bright planets beam with silver

6. A torch guides the way along a footpath

7. Floodlights blare out across a sporting arena attracting all manner of insects

8. Lightning illuminates a row of trees or houses

So too, emotional and spiritual illumination may come in unexpected ways and from unanticipated sources. I spent the day in a secular space where I saw glimmers and flashes. One was a young person who didn't always speak in kindness but then was adamant about the importance of protecting nature (in this case, an insect). Another was a young child who took the trouble to write a Christmas card for everyone in his class. Other instances were adults who took the time to provide food for those in need. 

In terms of spiritual light, I find it helpful to read widely so that both my mind and heart can find a place of rest. On the other hand, some illuminating experiences have come completely out of the blue. As a child, I endured grey clouds as a result of things people said in church groups. More recently, I've come to understand that God is not the grey clouds. I find myself resonating with the following from 1 John: God is light and in Him there is no darkness at all. 

I hope you find these thoughts helpful in some way. 

Comments

  1. BruceDecember 12, 2024 at 3:01 AM

    There is that ephemeral balance between light and darkness, in both a physical sense as well as a spiritual one. Our physical word consists of a visible balance of light and darkness which never lasts for long. It constantly changes. What appeals to me is the transcendental understanding we can make from the physical to the spiritual.
    That is, when we understand that all the darkness of the world lacks the power to extinguish a single candle flame, so then it follows how the spiritual light to which we are exposed, can never be overcome by the powers of spiritual darkness. Yet in the spiritual realm that balance between light and darkness also constantly changes for us.

    ReplyDelete
  2. BruceDecember 12, 2024 at 3:02 AM

    it is a physical WORLD, not "word". Sorry, my typing error.

    ReplyDelete
  3. RuthDecember 12, 2024 at 4:39 AM

    Thanks so much for your thoughtful comments Bruce.

    ReplyDelete
  4. SharmanDecember 13, 2024 at 1:56 PM

    Love the thoughts about light! Yes, it comes in so many different ways if we but open our eyes to see it!

    ReplyDelete

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