Sunshine in Greece (Photo credit: Guillaume Cattiaux)
I have been reading many posts about choosing (or letting God move us toward) a particular word to identify with during this year. I was particularly challenged by Abbey of the Arts post on the subject. I am also taking advantage of the 12 day “Give Me a Word 2013″ mini- retreat available there for subscribers.
I noticed that I was gravitating to themes of light. Not only do I want to spend more time in the light spiritually and practically, but I want to travel light in terms of really letting go of baggage that no longer serves. I also needed something to convey the ability of the Spirit to penetrate the shadowy places and saturate the heart with illumination.
The scripture I have been drawn to during advent over and over again is John 1:5 (ESV) “The Light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it.”
This scripture was part of the Epiphany gospel reading at church today and the word SHINE hit me right smack dab in the middle of the heart. That’s it. I want God to shine in me and help me to shine that light into the lives of those whose lives I touch.
A Deeper Story has a whole series of beautiful “One Word” posts if you are looking for a little more inspiration.
What about you, dear people? What is your living, breathing, word for 2013?
Shine is a beautiful word. I can think of a handful of people who do…you know: those people whom you meet and know instantly that they walk with the Lord. I’m definitely not one of those people, although I do walk w/ Him. I’ve wondered about it: will I grow into a shine? Do I need to ask for one? Or simply decide to do it? Have you seen the movie Stardust? (If not, rent it right away!)
I have thought a lot about this. I am an introvert and as a younger person tended more toward melancholy. My experiences have led me to sometimes focus on the darkness rather than the light. I think for me, shine just means that I am letting God be who He is in me, Light. One of my other favorite scriptures is from psalm 139: 12 “…even darkness is as light to you.” It helps me to lean into God more knowing that his light will gently shine in all of those places, healing what needs healing and helping me to reach out to others in the same way. Maybe think of it in terms of the healing qualities of sunlight rather than just the brightness. Light shines because that is what it was made to do. You already have God’s light in you, so you can be at peace.