I’m still not back to “normal” after daylight saving time. That might seem odd. I can understand if we had lost an hour, but even gaining an hour, I don’t seem acclimated. I’m ready to go to bed at 6 o’clock now. Just a few weeks ago, at 8 o’clock I was saying that the night was just starting. Now I’m in bed at 6. After all, it’s dark out. Why not?

The chairman of the deacons of the first church I served in the Farmville area was a beloved veterinarian in Farmville and a Godly man. He’s now retired, but I’ll always remember what he said to me. “John, I get depressed around this time of year. It’s dark and cold.” I get what he was saying. That was the first time I considered this scripture:

“Arise, shine; for your light has come! and the glory of the Lord is risen upon you. For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and deep darkness the people; but the Lord will arise over you, and His glory will be seen upon you” Isaiah 60:1-2, ESV

Of all the things you do this year, let the biggest be to arise and shine your light for the Lord. Shine and let God’s presence be welcome in all your dealings, in all that you do. I believe God doesn’t want us to just share our faith. God wants us to live our faith!

When you stand firm in faith and your identity in Christ as a beloved child, you will be a guiding light for others who may have lost their way. In your light, which is Jesus, people will find comfort, hope, security and inspiration. Even when you walk into a room, people will notice your light and that God is with you. Feed the burning of your light with the word of God and abide in faith and prayer. The glory of God, God’s goodness and greatness, is risen upon your life and now is the time to arise. Now is the time to fully yield to being who God created you to be. Now is the time to shine.

Perhaps you might feel like my first chairman of the deacons who got depressed this time of year. If so, try this prayer or one like it:

Holy God, As a flower opens to the sun, I’m open to You. I’m basking in Your light until it becomes mine. Lord make me stronger and abide with me as my heart speaks to you. Direct my steps and give me courage to speak of the good news to anyone who would listen. Thank you for your act of love so powerful that it is felt even to this day. From this moment onward I follow You Heavenly Light. May I become less dark as Your light is reflected within me. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. REV. JOHN MOXLEY can be reached at jmoxleydillwyn@gmail.com.