SHINING

“The thing about light is that it really isn’t yours; it’s what you gather and shine back. And it gets more power from reflectiveness; if you sit still and take it in, it fills your cup, and then you can give it off yourself.”

Anne Lammott

Day 19; when the light comes in SHINING, make sure to gather it up. But don’t stop there.

If you grew up in church or near anyone in church, you have to know the song, “This Little Light of Mine.” So, we had a more charismatic upbringing in the church. One of the lines and actions I remember most (because there was always a corresponding action) was:

“Hide it under a bushel? (shrug your shoulders & look confused)

NO! (point your finger & smush your eyebrows)

I’m gonna let it shine (now puff up your chest & point to yourself)

It’s going to be stuck in your head today. You’re welcome.

In this world of restrictions and recounts and rising numbers, remember these words from Jesus. Gather them up in your heart and then shine them back:

“You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept… If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—SHINE! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16 The Message