Shine Like the Sun

Then he left the crowds and went into the house. And his disciples approached him, saying, ‘Explain to us the parable of the weeds of the field.’ He answered, ‘The one who sows the good seed is the Son of Man; the field is the world, and the good seed are the children of the kingdom; the weeds are the children of the evil one, and the enemy who sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are angels. Just as the weeds are collected and burned up with fire, so will it be at the end of the age. The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will collect out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all evildoers, and they will throw them into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Let anyone with ears listen! Matthew 13:36-43

In these interesting and challenging times, it is hard to shine and be full of love. We often feel like small seeds, waiting to germinate, fearful in the cold, dark ground. There doesn't seem like enough light and warmth to make us ready for any given day. And now, the northern hemisphere of this earth is turning

away from the sun, giving us shorter days and less sun. The snow is surely not far off. Yet Jesus reminds us that we have the love of God within us to face each new day and to be light to others in dark times. May we try to be light and love today in an aching and cold world.

Loving Creator, source of light ad love

you have planted your spirit within us

and given us strength to love the outcast.

Our times are rife with cruelty and rage

it seems the lights are dimmed daily

and we want only to hide in our comfort.

You, Lord, have called us from hiding

giving us the strength to love and shine

help us to be your love light in our world. Amen.