Children of Light 

God on Monday
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For you are all children of light and children of the day; we are not of the night or of darkness. (1 Thess. 5:5). 

Reflection

Every year I am struck afresh with how dark the winter is, both literally and metaphorically. The gloomy days are characterized by low mood, overwhelming stress, difficulties in the workplace, strains in relationships, and a decline in mental and physical health. All this can give rise to the disturbing question ‘Is this really all there is?’

The Apostle Paul writes in 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 about the darkness that envelopes the world. He reminds his readers of their place within it as children of light who dispel that darkness. This does not imply that Christians escape the hardships faced by those around them, but it does imply that they are not consumed by them.

Light does not only dispel darkness. It also leads those who are lost in the darkness back to a place of safety. In our workplaces, we are in similar circumstances to those around us, but our role as a light bearer sets us apart.

This role does not entail the pretence that everything is happy and fine when that is far from our true circumstances. Instead, it entails acknowledging the hardships, whilst persevering with hope in our hearts. Sometimes it is the simple honesty of saying ‘I feel that too’ that will have the greatest impact on our colleagues when they share with us their struggles.

Celebrating the birth of Christ as the light of the world happens (in our hemisphere) during the darkest days of the year. This serves as an annual reminder of the difference we make in the world as we reflect that light to those around us. We await, of course, the eternal springtime to come, when all the dark corners of the world will be flooded with light. But we can rejoice in the here and now that the light of Christ has already pierced the gloom.

That light is beckoning us to follow God, as children of light, in everything we think, say and do this week.

Response

Where do you have opportunities to be honest with those you work with about the difficulties you face? How do they see the hope you have in facing these difficulties?

Prayer

Father God, there is so much darkness around us and within us. We need your restorative grace. Help us to be honest with those we encounter this week about the struggles we face. But help us also to bear witness to the hope you have given us. May this reflect your light and draw people to follow your lead. In Jesus’ name, amen.

This Week's Author

God on Monday is produced in partnership with the Church of England. The reflections are based on the scriptural readings designated for the next Sunday in the Church's lectionary. You can sign up to Faith in Business here to receive each God on Monday instalment. 

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