Somewhere in my swag of stories and anecdotes is the story of a wealthy man who wanted to build something wonderful for the people of the township in which he lived. He was a man of deep faith so this was to be a gift pointing to God.

His gift was to be a church, built on a hill for all to see. Architects were called, builders and artisans were gathered – and the building grew, upon that hill. Though they could see the walls and roof the townspeople were not allowed to see inside the building until it was finally completed.

When the day came, all gathered and were ushered in to view the beautiful windows, the finely crafted furnishings and the clean clear lines of arches soaring high above. All were in awe and remarked on the generosity of their benefactor.

Each family was settled into a pew for the dedication service, but it was late in the day and, as the sun set low on the horizon some folk began to search for the light switches. Then someone commented, “Do you know, I’m sure I have not seen a single light!”

Some began to grumble and criticize the rich man, for this rather sad lack in an, otherwise beautiful building. Then, as each family was presented with a lantern to be placed in the bracket on the wall by their pew, the pastor explained, “You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. 15 No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house”.

He continued, “At it service of worship, at each gathering, you are responsible for lighting your pew. When all are present the church is beautifully lit and all can see, but, when you are absent, your part of the church is not lit. There are places of darkness and some of the beauty of this place is hidden.”

You are the light of the world … when our church family gathers together it is a place of light shining with the light of Christ. When you are absent, there are places of darkness. You are missed and we are not whole!

You are the light of the world “let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.”

Many Blessings
Reverend Shan