Happy are the people who know the festal shout, who walk, O Lord, in the light of your countenance. Psalm 89:15
 
Jesus said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life." John 8:12
 
Have you ever toured a cave? I remember touring Wind Cave in the Black Hills many years ago. When our tour group was in the darkest part of the cave, our guide asked everyone to turn off any device which would give off light. Our group did so. It was disconcerting and amazing to be in total darkness. After a short time, our guide turned on a small flashlight. How that tiny bulb lit up the cavern! It was most comforting to be in light again.
 
I remembered this experience as I contemplated the verses for today. Throughout life we hear of people who have had to endure unbelievable trials and tribulations, such as untimely deaths of loved ones, wars, natural disasters, employment termination, loss of trust in ones thought to be trustworthy, etc. These events rightfully cause consternation, worry, sadness, and sometimes even fear.
 
Maybe you have experienced such difficulties. Your reactions are real and warranted; however, there is help through the promises of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. The hope promised by our Lord in today's verses has been a saving grace for countless children of God who have suffered, or who are suffering.
 
We have, in our hearts, one of the first songs we learned as children, "This Little Light of Mine." We know that the comfort of one small light can be the glimmer needed to restored hope and to begin one's reaching out to God for strength and comfort. May we tell others of the light of God shining in our lives to bring comfort in countless ways. 
 
Dear Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ,
Thank you for being the light of the world and the light in our lives. Let your light shine within each one of us as we, in turn, share this light with others. Thank you for being there to be a light of life for each one of us. Amen.
 
Florence Smallfield