Hello my friends,
This is Mark Ludman,
Also known as Brother Frederick James,
Your friendly neighborhood Monk-in-Docs,
And today we continue to reflect on the words of Jesus,
I am the light of the world,
As we continue on our Lenten journey.
So as we commence today,
I invite you to take a deep breath in and out.
Again breathe in,
Let go of any tension.
Now imagine yourself in a quiet place,
Surrounded by stillness.
The air is cool,
The world feels heavy,
And in this hear the words of Jesus,
I am the light of the world,
Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness,
But will have the light of life.
Let those words settle into your heart.
Let them be a lantern in whatever darkness you carry today.
I am the light of the world,
Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness,
But will have the light of life.
Darkness takes many forms,
Fear,
Pain,
Grief,
And injustice,
Just to name a few.
We see darkness in the world around us,
We feel darkness in our own lives,
And at times darkness can feel overwhelming,
Like the weight of night pressing in.
But Jesus shows us a different way.
He did not overcome darkness with more darkness.
Jesus didn't fight violence with violence,
Or hatred with hatred,
Or cruelty with revenge.
At the cross,
When the world unleashed its worst upon him,
Jesus responds with love,
With forgiveness,
With light.
Even in death,
Darkness did not win,
Because love is stronger,
Because light cannot be swallowed by night.
Where in your life do you feel overwhelmed by darkness?
Is there a place of struggle?
A wound that feels too deep?
A situation where light feels distant?
Now consider,
How might you respond to that darkness with the light of love?
Is there someone you need to forgive?
Not forgetting that that someone might be yourself.
Is there a place where hope needs to be rekindled?
Is there a space where you are called to bring light?
Close your eyes with me for a moment and imagine a dark room.
The shadows press in thick and unyielding.
You can't see the way forward and you feel completely alone.
Now in the distance,
A small light appears.
It flickers at first and then grows stronger.
Jesus is standing there holding a lantern.
His eyes are full of compassion.
His presence is steady and unwavering.
He steps closer,
Lifting the light towards you and as he does,
The darkness recedes.
Not all at once,
But a little bit at a time.
Every step that he takes towards you,
Step by step.
Then he places the lantern in your hand and whispers to you,
You,
You are the light of the world.
Shine in the darkness.
Do not be afraid.
Let his light fill you.
Let the light push back fear.
Let the light give you strength.
As we pray together,
Jesus,
Light of the world,
When we are overwhelmed by darkness,
Help us remember that you have already overcome.
Teach us to walk in your way,
To meet hatred with love,
Bitterness with mercy,
Fear with trust.
Give us the courage to shine even when the world feels dark.
And may we always remember,
Your light will never,
Ever be overcome.
Amen.
Take a deep breath in.
Slowly release.
And as you move forward from this moment,
May you carry the light of Christ with you.
And may his love,
Grace and peace shine through you every step of the way in all that you do.
Amen.
Until tomorrow,
Keep shining brightly,
My friend.
Peace be with you.
