Staying in the Light

Dear Friends,

“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness—on them light has shined.”  Isaiah 9:2

These words from this Sunday’s first reading really jump out at us today.  As people of faith, we are called to stay in touch with the light within us and to shine the light for others.  

We are all acutely aware of the darkness in our civic life these days.  It’s challenging to stay in touch with the light when there is so much chaos and discord.  It makes us especially appreciate leaders who bring more light into the world.  

When one of the major light-bearers of our age dies during a particularly dark time, it causes us to reflect on what is really important and why we value what we value.  Jim Lehrer’s death yesterday is just such a moment of reflection.  Leherer was a highly respected journalist and founder of the PBS News Hour.  He also moderated more presidential debates than anyone in history.  He was known for his deep commitment to fairness, impartiality, transparency, honesty, kindness, looking for the good in others, morality, sound judgment and excellence in his vocation.  He was quoted as having told the reporters in the news room to remember that “It’s not about us”.  The qualities Lehrer embodied are so very important to maintain the integrity of our institutions and the fabric of society.  He gives us a wonderful example to follow.  

Our faith teaches us over and over and over again that light vanquishes the darkness.  I look forward to coming together this Sunday to worship and to strengthen our faith, so that we may be light-bearers this coming week. 

Yours in Christ,

Shearon+