Shedding Light

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Light in the Darkness

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The world we’re living in is becoming more technological by the day. Many have differing views on how good or bad this is. I think that technology and social media can definitely have their benefits, as long as we are mindful about our use of it and what we are watching. Some of the best parts of social media and technology is when we can use it to fill our minds with positive, uplifting, endorphin-increasing things, such as funny kitten videos or videos of babies’ laughter. Who doesn’t love those?

I watched a series of videos the other day that I thought were the epitome of positive social media use and the epitome of what the season we’re currently in is all about. The videos were of a young man who decided during the pandemic that he was going to use his money and wealth to bless others. After that decision, his social media page was filled with videos of him approaching the less fortunate and those without homes to ask them a seemingly simple question: “What can I do to put a smile on your face today?” There were many answers, but most went along the lines of asking for food, jackets, blankets, shoes, tents, materials for their pets, soap, et cetera. The tears of joy that fell from each of their faces when the young man came back with the items they asked for also brought tears of joy to mine.

It got me thinking, “Wow Lord, that’s amazing. I wish I could do that.” And then, He sort of replied, “Why can’t you?” This answer humbly reminded me that the size of the act of kindness/giving is not what matters. It is the intention of the heart to do good that matters. Whether I can give a single dollar or 200 dollars, neither act of kindness is greater nor less than the other. An act of kindness does not have to be financial to be meaningful either. Sacrificing of one’s time, lending an ear to listen, a shoulder to cry on, or a hand to help are all also meaningful acts. Even when it seems like we have nothing physical or important to give, then give kindness. Offer a smile or a compliment to someone. Seemingly little efforts such as these are not little at all and often are enough to possibly make someone’s day.

Times are tough for many families during this season. We need to offer out kindness and acts of service more than ever. Like I said, acts of service can be anything. God made us each uniquely with our own traits and gifts and we all have different things to offer. My prayer during this season is that each of you see yourselves the way God and your loved ones see you. I pray that we all approach each day with mindfulness regarding what simple acts of kindness and service we can offer to bring a smile to the faces of others. I also pray that we do not compare our acts and abilities with others and that we see what we have to offer as valuable as it is.

One of my favorite verses to ponder on during this holiday season is John 1:5, which says, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.” This is a reminder to myself as much as it is to anyone else: be a light in your home, school, workplace, and community, because they need it, and the darkness cannot overcome it.

God bless and Happy New Year, Cibola!