In the Hands of the Potter~ January 5, 2018

A story is told about John Ruskin, the 18th-century English writer when he was quite old. He was visiting with a friend and was standing looking out the front window of the house. It was nighttime, and the lamplighter was lighting the street lamps. From the window, one could only see the lamps that were lit, and the light the lamplighter was carrying from one lamppost to the next. The lamplighter himself could not be seen.

Ruskin remarked that the lamplighter was a good example of the genuine Christian. His way was clearly marked by the lights he lit, and the lights he kept burning—even though he himself may not be known or seen.

The Magi followed the star that led them to the humble stable. It has been said that many at the time saw the star, but only a few had the courage and wisdom follow the star that led to Love Incarnate. Are we aware of the Light shining within us, around us, among us—in the lives of our family members, the stranger, those who need us? How brightly does our light shine upon others? Do our actions and words bring light into the lives of all those we meet?

As we begin this new year and celebrate the Epiphany, may we remember to pray for each other, that 2018 may be a year in which we follow the light of Christ and become truly lights shining forth God’s goodness for others?

 

Written by: Sr. Marie Paul Grech SND

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