As Wes, Frank and I stood in front of the sea of candles held high singing Silent Night I couldn’t help but think about how wonderful it was to begin our ministry together with the sign of the light of Christ surrounding us. As the light twinkled around us illuminating the glass windows, pews, walls, and faces it was as is if we were in the midst of the ocean made of light and everything came alive because of it. 

Since I was a child I have always loved this portion of the Christmas Eve service. The way Christ’s light goes from one person to the next is beautiful uniting young or old, single or married, new to church or a seasoned member. The moment we share the light of Christ with your loved one, a friend or maybe a stranger is the beautiful symbol of the way Christ light spreads through us. As the light gets brighter the words from John 1 seem to come alive, “In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.”  

The light of Christ is always spreading though conversations, smiles, hugs, and relationships we have with others. It moves through us and around us lighting up the dark world but too often we miss it. We are surrounded by the shadows of darkness found in war, hurt, and loss and the light becomes distant. This is why we celebrate with the simple candles at Christmas Eve, to once again cast out darkness and recognize the signs of light in us.   

Together we stood with Christ before us as the light was passed down the rows of people until everyone’s candle was lit. The light enveloped each person not only lighting the wick of the candle but lighting up each person’s face. And before us was a sea of God’s family. It was a beautiful night of worship, praise, and celebration of Christ’s birth and a wonderful way for us to begin this New Year.

As we begin 2014, let us begin remembering the light of Christ that lives in each of us. I can’t wait to see the light of Christ working in each of you. May this year begin with the light of Christ surrounding you!