I spent ten days in KY last month taking care of grandchildren while their parents went on a ministry trip. I dropped Elli at pre-school then went grocery shopping with thirteen month old Quinn. As we approached the frozen food aisle, I noticed that it was dark. The power in the store was on and it puzzled me. Taking a step, the light in the first freezer door went on. I assumed that it was time to turn on the lights in the freezers as it was now 9:00. Not so. I took another step and the next light was on. It became a game with Quinn and me. I took a step, a light went on; another step and another light. Seated in the shopping cart, Quinn laughed as I intentionally stepped forward rolling the cart and then came to a halt as we watched the light go on. When we reached the end of the aisle, all doors were illuminated. Still, I wondered if perhaps it was a fluke and the lights were programmed to go on at that time. Turning to the next aisle, I noticed the same thing—dark freezer doors lit up when I approached each one. I commented to Quinn that “When Nonni approaches, the light goes on. That’s the way it should be,” I continued. “We should let our light shine whenever we take a step.” At thirteen months, I know he didn’t understand or appreciate my insight and Biblical application. He just smiled with delight at the lights and looked at me with an expression that melted my heart.

Jesus spoke to the crowds reminding them to let our light shine. Like a city on a hill that is strategically placed and spreads its lights for miles, or a candle that illumines a room, we are designed and placed in our sphere of influence to have our light shine. His sovereign placement may be in the workplace, community, church, families, friends, and with grandchildren. Wherever we are and whenever we communicate with others, we are given special moments to shine our light. A few weeks ago, friends were at my home for lunch when one of them received a troubling phone call. Women surrounded her with hugs and prayers and let their lights shine. When she left and said, “I’m going to listen to praise music on the way home;” her light blinded me! Encouraging a student going through challenges is one of the ways my husband lets his light shine. When you wish a “good day” to the cashier at a supermarket, you shine your light. Choosing to put someone else’s interests above yours, spreads light. Look for opportunities to let your light shine through words, actions and choices. You may receive smiles of delight in return and your heart will melt.

Reflection: We will be turning our clocks ahead soon and have more daylight. How will you make more of your daylight hours count? Read what Jesus said about letting our light shine in Matthew 5: 14-16.(c) Marilyn Nutter All rights reserved.

Light Fruit Salad

1 20 oz can pineapple tidbits, drained

2 green apples, sliced in cubes

2 red apples, sliced in cubes

1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Combine: ¾ cup vanilla or plain yogurt or fat free sour cream, with 3 Tbsp. brown sugar, ¼ tsp. cinnamon and pour over fruit. Gently toss to coat fruit. Serve on lettuce leaves. Serves 4.