On a recent chilly evening, I glanced around at 200 middle and high school students, each brimming with energy and clutching small white candles dressed in paper wax catchers. Amidst the excitement I began to worry about how we would light all the candles with only two lighters.
I lit my candle and was quickly surrounded by a handful of eager students. For a brief second, as many other candles leaned into mine, it seemed as if they stole my fuel. My flame flickered blue and threatened to dim, but it was stubborn against the wind and intrusions. As the other candles took off, igniting their light, I was amazed to see mine begin to burn even brighter.
“Light yours, and then pass it on,” I repeated to the students.
Within mere seconds, the light was spreading like fire - literally. Fast, furious, and strong. Before long, I was captivated by the sight of 200 students singing and holding their lit candles high. It was a stunning, powerful sight that stuck with me for days.
This experience reminded me that as Christ followers, our light is ignited by Jesus, and it burns even brighter when we pass it on to others. At times you may feel your light is temporarily exhausted by doubts, exhaustion, or fears. But, when you trust in Jesus as your source, others will see you shining even brighter.
You can be a light to so many this Christmas! I want to encourage you with this image even as you encounter difficult situations, protect your light against the wind, hold steady, and allow others to see and share that light. Spread Jesus’s light like fire! You may never know all the darkness you will illuminate when trusting in Him. You are helping to light up the world!
Merry Christmas!
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