Shed a Little Light

On the shelf beside my desk sits a small framed plaque inscribed, "One heart dedicated to God can bring Light to the world."  It is a reminder that what I do -- what each of us does -- has impact on others with whom we come in contact.

For some reason that framed placard caught my attention this morning.  I am one who prefers to avoid contact with other people beyond what is necessary.  I am most content alone walking through the woods or, across the pasture.  I find peace in solitude.

Yesterday, we went to Rockwall to do some Christmas shopping.  Normally, I would have begged out of the trip and spent the time doing something else, but I needed a haircut and so felt compelled to accomplish that feat.  The pile of silvery wool that fell to the floor was a testament to how long I had put off the task.  The young lady who cut it looked somewhat askance when I told her how short I wanted it, but when I explained that it had been awhile, she accepted that I actually knew what I was asking.

Afterward, I walked across to a store on the other side of the parking lot where my better half was shopping for items on her list.  It was a pleasant walk and the weather was nearly perfect in the low 70's.  I had to use a good deal of caution due to the high volume of traffic craziness that seems to be normal this time of year, but made the trek unscathed.

I caught up with her in the farthest corner of the large store and assumed my post as escort and "basket pusher" -- although, come to think of it, I didn't push the basket although that would be normal since it gives me something constructive to do as she shops.  I don't recall speaking to anyone other than her in that huge store.

We later went to lunch at a restaurant we prefer and had some interaction with the waiter who seemed a nice young man.  We both told him he was doing a good job and it was the first smile I had seen on his face since we sat down in the busy restaurant.

The next stop, I remained in the vehicle and read.  It was warm with a very light breeze that made it pleasant.  We then made a final stop at a small specialty store that held some interest for me and I went inside where I spent a good deal of time visiting with one of the clerks who was attempting to sell me on an item that was far above the price range we were willing to consider.  I repeatedly told him so, but he kept trying to redirect us that direction.  I have to admire his persistence, but he completely missed a sale by failing to listen to our wishes and directing us appropriately and instead insisted that the higher priced item was right for us.

My point in this commentary of my day, is that I doubt seriously that, other than the brief words to the waiter, I brought much light to the world yesterday.  I don't think I contributed to the darkness, but I also didn't exploit every opportunity to share the Light, which is Jesus, to those with whom I came in contact.  Instead, I mostly chose to minimize my interaction with others in spite of the myriad opportunities.  I need to do better.  We all need to do better.  We are called to be the Light.

Matthew 5:16 -- "In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven."