A few weekends ago, we went up to New Hampshire. Earl had some work to do, and since he had a hotel room we decided to join him. It’s always nice to get out of town for a bit. Especially when you have kids, and especially when said hotel has a pool!
As we were driving, we passed a handful of churches that were either built on a hill or built into a hill. There were so many of them we obviously took notice, and it reminded me of this verse:
You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:14-16)
We are living in troubled times. I see the horrifying headlines, I feel the division. And I retreat into my own quiet space – not out of apathy, but for reflection and discernment. And if I’m really honest, for some self-preservation. I won’t add to the noise right now. Just stillness. And peace. For now.
When the problems seem too big (because THEY ARE. And there are JUST SO MANY.) and I refuse to be complacent, I often wonder: “what can I do in my small space? How can I be ‘the light of the world’ with what little influence I’ve been given?” A light that will stand in the darkness. One that won’t be hidden.
Currently, our church is striving to bring awareness to the Syrian Refugee Crisis. And I want to invite you to attend a very special (free) event this Thursday:
It is an evening of storytelling. You’ll meet a Syrian woman who resettled here in Connecticut. She’ll tell of her family’s struggle to leave Syria and how they made their way to a refugee camp in Turkey. You’ll have an opportunity to taste her authentic Middle Eastern cuisine and learn of ways you can help her family should you be drawn to her story (I’m pretty sure you will be).
Roushan will tell her story.
You’ll have the opportunity to purchase some of these beautiful, hand-beaded scarves from Syria!
We’ll also hear from the Quiet Corner Refugee Resettlement group and learn about the work they do with Syrian refugees locally. We’re hoping to learn about some practical ways to help in our own community.
We’re hosting this event because these are our neighbors. The ones Jesus told us to love as we love ourselves. (Matthew 22:39) I can’t help but think that our children are going to look back on these times and ask us about it. I want them to know that we tried to love our neighbors well.
I hope you’ll join us. May our lights shine in the darkness. <3
