It is dark and gloomy outside,
And inside for some of us.
This is my third Christmas back,
And I think I am finally getting it, about all the Christmas lights.
We need light!
We crave light!
It reminds us that there is hope,
That we will not be consumed.
It is our stand against this encroaching darkness.
Yet, somehow this darkness is our teacher.
Slow down, relax, build a fire, eat some soup, sleep,
Give way to this season of life.
Waiting is not giving up, it is an inside growing and maturing.
It is where hope gives birth to faith.
I am reminded of another search for light.
It’s about a people walking in darkness who saw a great light.
It’s about a star pointing the way on a very dark night in a very dark time.
This light is still shining and making a home in us,
Until, we are a City on a Hill,
Shining brightly and giving light for all to see.
I am also reminded to look for the light in others.
It is there!
We are all image bearers of God.
We all have light sides and dark sides.
Can we search, as in a treasure hunt, for the diamonds in others?
When all around is so dark,
It is time to shine for others who are struggling in their battles with the darkness.
It is time to lend a little more light to them.
Use our good deeds: our hands, our feet, our ears,
Our words of encouragement, and even our money.
Whichever way we shine the best.
© 2011 Julie Clark
Backfromtheborderlands's Blog 
Hi Julie, I just got back from two years in Africa staying in Olympia WA right now could we chat? send me an email please justinekpearson@yahoo.com
URC is a little too filled with coal dust this time of year to really bask in the light of the season. I loved what you said about finding the light in everyone since we are all in his image. I also want to use my hands and feet, voice and action to spread the light. Thanks Julie (mom) for the great post
I remember those dark coal dust days! You just have to search a little harder for the light. Looking forward to hearing more of your stories!