Optional Scripture: Isaiah 50:10 (theme selected text)

As the holiday season approaches, there is much anticipation of family and office get togethers, but there is the stress of time constraints which seems to be intensified by the shortening of daylight hours plus the “fallback” of the clocks. In the past, this negatively affected my running schedule, since it is dark by the time I get home this time of year. I would try to run in the dark, but would occasionally veer off the running path or almost get hit by bicycles. My brilliant wife had the perfect solution. She bought me a headband nightlight. I was reluctant to try it at first, but it has revolutionized my running schedule. Recently, I ran with a friend and was able to illuminate his path as well. This made me feel good to be able to share my light so we could both run safely. However, this is physical light and was useful for a brief and finite period of time. My spiritual light is more important and its benefits are much longer lasting. I was made aware of this at one of those holiday gatherings. My work group of about 50 was having our Thanksgiving potluck lunch. Not wanting to be first in line, I was still in my office when the phone rang. They were waiting and wanted me to say the blessing. I was extremely honored to be asked to shine my light in what is normally a secular setting.