Peace Light Update.

It has been 18 days since I received the 'peace light' that has traveled from Bethlehem Israel to America. I have continued to nurture the flame, refill the oil resevoir, trim the wick, and keep the light burning. Phew! How does that little flame continue to survive against all odds? I mean think about it, the little flame burning continuously for the last 18 days. This is hard work! I'm plumb tuckered out just thinking about the exertion that flame must be going through. Oh wait, the flame simply draws from the oil source and does what physics, chemistry and science in general offer in the way of combustion systems. The real work truly is mine in maintaining and overseeing the systems.

You may remember how I lamented caring for this flame and how I felt like an expectant father. I was meticulous in holding the lamp with care and I lit backup candles so as to not be without the peace light. I was a bit overwhelmed at caring for such an important symbol. I am not so uptight about the flame today as I was on December 21. There is still a desire to keep the flame burning till December 24 2016, but right now the strain of caring for said flame is taking its toll.

Presently, the cost for oil has just reached about $30 and it is becoming less easy to defend spending that much money to keep a flame burning for a year. Extrapolating that cost over another 300+ days and one can see the expense would tip the $500 mark (I think I just heard my school loans cry out from another room).

A decision is fast approaching to extinguish the flame. There will be a small ceremony as a prayer is offered. The prayer will be added to a hymn of praise (maybe "Go Light Your World" by Kathy Troccolli) as I thank God for the light he has shone into my heart. Jesus has brought hope. peace, and deep joy to me and I am forever grateful. So, I will resolve to continue being the light of Christ for the world in which I live. While the 'peace light' from Bethlehem will be gone, the light of Christ still burns brightly. I'm reminded of these verses that richly describe our place as torch-bearers for Jesus Christ.

“You are the light of the world. A city 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 men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your

Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:14-16, NIV)

Has your heart been illuminated by the Light of Christ? If so, then continue to shine Christ's love and grace wherever you go. Be that shining city on the hill! Be the lamp that shines into houses and push back the darkness.

If you have kept the light of Christ from your heart, stop your struggles, fall to your knees, and allow His light to illuminate the dark places. The cost to you will be steep. God desires an ongoing litany of praise and worship from your new brightened heart. Lift up your voice and sing His praise for the work He has done....for you and for me! Let's become the 'peace light' in the flesh!