PASSING THE LIGHT

...let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. Mathew 5:14 (NIV)

A Christian church in a small Pennsylvania town held its first Christmas Eve service in a rented "store front." The pastor, his wife and two small children, the piano player and her family of three were the only attendees.

The Pastor began with a prayer of thanksgiving for the miraculous birth of Jesus, the Son of God. He spoke of the humility of the scene where the Creator of the universe arranged for the birth of His Son--in a stable.

Near the conclusion of the service, candles were given out. After prayer, the pastor lit his candle and passed the fire to one other person, who passed it on to one more person until each candle was lit. The pastor turned the lights off in the room, leaving a warm glow.

As the candles flickered, they sang, "The First Noel," and "Silent Night," before extinguishing the candles.

Pastor explained, "Those of you who believe in salvation through Christ carry within yourself the light of God. Our Lord wants you to pass that light on to others."

Twenty five years went by and the church has grown in numbers and faith. They gather to worship in their own fine building Still, every Christmas Eve service includes includes passing the light and singing the same hymns.

As God's plan continues to unfold, it is obvious this congregation is dedicated to pass the light of salvation all year long.

Prayer: Dear Lord, May we each take hold of a commitment to pass the light of salvation through Jesus on to others.

(C) 2016 Christena Struben