A sunbeam

“This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine.” 

These are lyrics many of us know. They are from an old gospel song, and it is a song about faith, perseverance, and resilience. It says, “I am going to encourage others to be positive.”

In the Bible, the word light symbolizes God’s presence, holiness, truth, and life-giving power. It is often contrasted with the word dark, which suggests something more demonic or grim.

It is noted in John 1:5 that, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

It is interesting when you think of it, that darkness cannot overcome light. If you have a room with the lights on, and you make part of the room dark, there is still light shining in the darkness.

Even the structure of our days and nights is designed to have more light than darkness; on a given 24-hour day, there are more light hours than dark hours. And even in the darker hours, there is light from stars, planets, and the moon.

Light and darkness are not just physical characteristics of our surroundings, like being outside in the sun or in a dark room. It also applies to our moods, our character, or our situation.

We think of joy as being light, and sadness or grief as dark. Light is uplifting, and inner light shines not only inwardly, but also radiates from the person. 

Darkness can also radiate. Behaviors that instigate and encourage negativity can damage relationships and communities. 

Ecclesiastes 3 tells us there is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens. “A time to weep, and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance.”

When we lose someone, it is a time of sadness and grief. When we have a friend who is grieving, it is a time to acknowledge their grief and allow that time for them. Then, when the time is right, encourage them with your light, so the darkness cannot overcome.

I remember a song we used to sing in Sunday School when I was a child “Jesus Wants Me for a Sunbeam.” In some churches the children’s class was called “Sunbeams.”

The words to this song said that Jesus wants me to shine for him each day, and in every way try to please him at home, at school, and at play. 

The definition of a sunbeam is a ray of light from the sun that appears when sunlight shines through openings in clouds, haze, or dust.

Figuratively, a sunbeam is a person who lets the inner light shine through the dust and clouds of life. Have you ever noticed that it is actually more comfortable to be around someone who is cheerful than someone who is grumpy? This is no news flash. We love pleasant things, and negativity is not attractive. 

I’ll be a sunbeam for him.

— My love to all,

Nancy

• • •

In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

— Matthew 5:16