January 25, 2022

Novelist Edith Wharton once said, "There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that receives it." God is 100% candle and we are 100% mirror. That’s why “This Little Light of Mine – I’m gonna let it shine”, though catchy, is a theologically disastrous song and should be banned from all Vacation Bible Schools.

To wit, here is part of John’s prologue. “There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness, to bear witness about the light, that all might believe through him.  He was not the light, but came to bear witness about the light. The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world.” (John 1: 6-9)

A mirror, or perhaps a diamond. In the words of Pink Floyd “Shine on you crazy diamond!”

“Almighty God, whose Son our Savior Jesus Christ is the light of the world: Grant that your people, illumined by your Word and Sacraments, may shine with the radiance of Christ's glory, that he may be known, worshipped, and obeyed to the ends of the earth; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, now and for ever. Amen.” (Second Sunday after the Epiphany – BCP)