yellow bulb

SHINE!

November 2, 2021

As I reflect on our theme for this month, I am swept back to summer nights in our backyard. Summer nights at our home means having a backyard filled with teens hanging out in our hammock area which I strategically placed for just this reason. On occasion, I will get to hang out with them and catch up on how things are going. When twilight falls the string of solar powered lights begin to twinkle on and we begin to see one of my most beloved bugs make its appearance, the lightening bug! 

Aren’t lightening bugs wonderful? Their lights are mesmerizing as they blink on and off. I could watch them for hours. As my eyes follow their path around the yard, I am amazed at the impact these tiny bugs make. Have you noticed how even their tiny light dispels the darkness?

One of my bucket list items is to see the Synchronous fireflies (Photinus carolinus) that live in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. They are one of only a few species in the world known to synchronize their flash patterns. The area where they can be seen each year offers a breathtaking sight as the night sky is lit up with hundreds, perhaps thousands, of fireflies. Imagine being in that field as lights begin to blink and then take flight around you. In that moment, the darkness around you begins to take flight as the light of these tiny creations dispel it.

Isn’t God awesome? He created these amazing bugs. I am certain these little creations bring a smile to His face. Just as his heart leaps over these incredible bugs, His face lights up with the very mention of you. He longs to be in relationship with you and see you live out the purpose he has for you.

Lightening bugs were created to light up the night. They are leaning into their purpose when they take flight with their beautiful lights. We were also created to live in relationship with God and then to “light up the night” around us.

Jesus said, “You are the light of the world….let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16

As you and your family reflect on this time of year, remember the impact lightening bugs make on the darkness. What are some ways you and your family can shine the light of Jesus through your lives to the world around you? Do your neighbors notice Jesus’ light shining through you? I love the front cover of this month’s book the lantern has a cross in the center. Our light comes from “The Light of the World” who is Jesus. When we have a relationship with Jesus, He transforms us from the inside out to think, act, and love others like he does. When we shine Jesus’ light to the world around us, we “light up the night”.

Let’s Get Glowing!

Katrina & The Faith & Family Box Team

let's be family!

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@faithandfamilybox

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