Weekly Roundup: Sunday, December 15, 2024
Isaac Bashevis Singer’s The Power of Light tells a poignant Hanukkah story set in a freezing, dark basement during the horrors of the Warsaw ghetto. Two young survivors, David (14) and Rebecca (13) clung to life and hope amidst unimaginable darkness. One bitter winter day, David returned from a dangerous food search with not only sustenance but a special surprise—a candle and matches to mark the first night of Hanukkah.
When they lit the candle, its tiny flame illuminated their weary but determined faces and filled their hearts with hope and courage. That fragile light became a beacon, boldly inspiring them to escape their dire circumstances. This story reminds us of the power of light to bring hope, warmth, and renewal even in the darkest times.
This story reminds us of the power of light to pierce the darkest situations. In their courage, David and Rebecca echo the call to be light-bearers in the world. As followers of Christ, we are called to let His light shine through us, giving the courage to stand for justice, hope to the oppressed, and a path out of darkness for those trapped by fear and despair.
Where are the “dark cellars” in our world today?
Who is hiding in fear, waiting for someone to bring light? Whether standing up against racial injustice, advocating for the marginalized, or feeding the hungry, the light of Christ calls us to act boldly. Just as David and Rebecca found courage in the candle’s glow, we can find courage in Christ’s light to take bold steps toward justice and freedom for all.
Like that tiny flame, we may shine brightly in a world longing for hope.
Pastor Jamey
Weekend Prayer
Lord of hope and justice, You are the light that pierces every darkness and the flame that warms every fearful heart. Give us the strength to stand against injustice, the wisdom to seek paths of peace, and the compassion to lift those suffering. Let Your love guide us to be beacons of hope, lighting the way toward freedom and restoration for all Your children. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Wisdom Nugget: Injustice thrives in darkness, but even the smallest light can spark courage. Let Christ's light guide you to stand for the oppressed and fight for what's right. #BoldForJustice #FaithInAction
A Question to Consider: How can we bring the light of Christ to those who feel trapped in the darkness of injustice and despair?
Meme of the week
Dad Jokes
What’s the Grinch’s least favorite band? The Who!
What do you call an Elf on the Shelf who just won the lottery? Welfy!
Found Interesting on Social Media
Podcast Worth Listening to:
Articles that caught my eye
After every election, I turn to Tolstoy
These Nuns Were Excommunicated but Won’t Leave Their Convents
The Hawaiians Who Want Their Nation Back
‘Dumbed-Down Catholicism Was a Disaster’
Is Bill Belichick Ready for North Carolina?
Luigi Mangione and the Making of a Modern Antihero
Christmas Music from my friends - Michelle, Donna, and Johnny. Check it out!
APPLE MUSIC: https://music.apple.com/.../christmas.../1781695864
YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/playlist...
Weekly Blessing and/or Quotes
As you go into the world, may you be a beacon of light, leading others from darkness to freedom and from despair to joy. May the God of hope and peace go before you, beside you, and within you, now and always. Amen.
"Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness." – Desmond Tutu
"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that." – Martin Luther King Jr.
"When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, 'Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.'" – Fred Rogers
