Well, the nights are definitely getting longer, it can seem dark and dreary at this time of year. Especially as many of us set off (to work or school) in the dark and find that it is already going dark before we get home; but this time of year can also be so light and lovely. It’s easier to be up in time for the sunrise, when sunrise is much later in the day, and lighting lamps and candles and fairy lights is very beautiful. There’s something so mesmerising about the flickering flame of a candle, the way it almost dances in the dark, casting the shadows further away and bathing us in a soft, kind light – no wonder that we use them so much in our faith.

Of course, we don’t need candles or lamps to light our lives; with Jesus beside us we can light our world ourselves. Every time we walk into a room with a smile, every gesture of kindness, every time we help another being, or think how we can improve our planet we cast light into the darkness. For, just as Jesus is the light of our world, so we, as Christians, spread His light to all. So, this weekend, let us light our candles (or lamps) and pray that God will continue to use us as lights in the shadows of our world. Maybe we will put a little extra in a charity box, or offer a meal to someone in need, or carry in the shopping for an elderly neighbour. Maybe we will just smile brightly at the person in the queue next to us or ask the person on the till at the supermarket how they are feeling; but whatever we do, let us do it in Jesus’ name and with His light shining out of our hearts.

John 8:12 (ESV) Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”.