“Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O Lord.”  Psalm 89:15

 

My two grandsons have a couple of items in their bedroom that glow-in-the-dark.  On one visit, we picked up the items and put them near a light.  Then they turned off the lights.  The boys were quick to show me the glow coming from each item.  But all too soon, the image faded.  We repeated the process several times, much to their delight.  I asked them how they recharged the light.  They told me that to do that we have to expose the items to a strong light.

 

I sensed they are learning that there is a connection between this experience and our own Christian walks.  When we draw strength from Christ through reading the Bible, praying, giving thanks in all circumstances, and meditating on what God would have us do, our ability to cope with and overcome the inevitable trials of life increases.  So does our inner peace.  The darkness of fear, pain, and despair fades as Christ’s light within us glows brightly.  Our witness to others also brightens, reflecting more powerfully the image of Christ living in us.  All of us need to return to this light again and again.

 

Blessings for the day and God Bless America!

CH Mike

 

Michael L. Raymo

CH (LTC) US Army Retired

Staff Chaplain

Birmingham VA Medical Center

700 S. 19th Street

Birmingham, AL 35233

205.933.8101 ext 5522

 

To Heal Sometimes; To Restore Often; To Comfort Always