Faith in a Time of Pandemic – Shine Like a Star

XXXIX.
SHINING LIKE STARS IN THE UNIVERSE
(4/23)

“You shine like stars in the world.” (Philippians 2:15)

You shine like a star. That’s a big affirmation, isn’t it? Perhaps Paul is remembering Jesus affirmation, “you are the light of the world…let your light shine.” Paul is reminding the Philippians and us that we can be lights in our world. We don’t have to succumb to fear and negativity, but having looked clearly at the challenges we face, we can be voices for hope and healing.

The pandemic can dim our lights. By now, a lot of us may be feeling a bit depressed and that is normal. We have lost a great deal over the past several weeks, and we grieve that. We are uncertain about the future, and we are appropriately anxious. And, yet…because God is with us, we can shine by taking a different spiritual path. Countering the ways of the world, we can:
• Pray for our leaders even when we disagree.
• Smile at a neighbor despite physical distancing.
• We can say “I love you” or “Forgive me.”
• We can be generous with our time, talent, and treasure, realizing that from our homes we are connected with the world.
• We can be prudent and yet hopeful.
• We can pray for everyone we meet.
• We can bless quietly everyone we meet.

The scripture says you are a star and you can shine, just as you are are. Don’t be dim, be bright as you can be in love and joy, facing your fears, but discovering courage through prayer. You are a star! Let your light shine!
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Shine Jesus, shine. In me and in the world. Let my life illumine others and guide my path through this perilous time. Let my light give you glory and add to the beauty of the world. Amen.