Let the Lower Lights Keep Burning!
by Janet Stobie
Over the last few weeks and months, I have often felt as if I were in a boat being tossed by a hurricane. Moving can do that to you. We’ve been tossed from possible homelessness, to trying to keep all our commitments in the new place and the old, to preparing for the new. Finally, we’re here, settled (well sort of) in our new home. Of course, we’ve not been on this journey alone. God has been our guide, our strength, our lighthouse beacon in this storm. Our families have given support. Real estate agents Jane and John Ross, and financial advisor Alexis Phillips have been steadfast guides. Our friends have been rock solid, especially Diane and Stephanie. We needed them all to find the way to shore. We are truly grateful.
In the old hymn, “Let the Lower Lights Be Burning,” Phillip Bliss speaks of God as a lighthouse beacon, guiding sailors through the stormy night. He reminds us also that it’s our job to keep the shore lights burning, so that sailors can see to land their boats safely. We are called to be God’s lights, to shine out in daily life. Through our caring, we can provide a guide and challenge around the shoals and rocks of temptation; through our compassion and love, offer the comfort and security of a safe passage in the dark.
Now we’re ready to begin again, marketing my novel, “Fireweed,” supporting and enjoying family, having fun, serving God in the church and best of all, being God’s lights along the shore for others. Whether it’s smooth sailing or choppy seas, we know we’ll be fine. A life of faith is wonderful. Give it a try. God will surprise you with joy.
A windstorm swept down on the lake, and the boat was filling with water, and they were in danger. 24 They went to him and woke him up, shouting, “Master, Master, we are perishing!” And he woke up and rebuked the wind and the raging waves; they ceased, and there was a calm. Luke 8:23-24