Words of
Encouragement & Hope
Submitted by Dorothy Schrag
LIGHT OF THE WORLD
Being in my mid-nineties, I find that I have amassed a multitude of memories throughout the years. They have served me well; especially in these past chaotic months of pandemic when I have spent some time in a lockdown situation.
One special memory brings smiles to me. Our youngest son (who is now a retired Seminary Professor) spent his early ministry pastoring intergenerational churches. His first call was to a vibrant church close enough for us to visit occasionally. In those days, the pastor gave a children's sermon at the beginning of the service. Afterwards, the 4 and 5 year old children would march out to go to their Sunday School.
One Sunday, nearing Christmas, Pastor Lyle gathered the little ones around the altar steps. He held a string of Christmas lights as he spoke of the beauty of lights in our world.
One little 5 year old boy shouted out, "Plug'em in" as Lyle continued talking. The shout got louder, "Plug'em in" as Lyle continued talking. The shout got louder, "PLUG'EM IN," and the congregation tried to muffle their smiles as the boy's parents sank into their seats.
Finally, Pastor Lyle did plug in the lights, much to the delight of all. Then he spoke of our having Jesus, who is the Light of the World and what a joy that is....and that, we too, could be lights in a dark world.
Remember singing in your youth: "This Little Light of Mine?" Praise God we are still able to share that light with others. I try to do that as I walk the halls of Grandview Terrace, my current home. Praying for fellow residents and praising God for His light in this darkened world.
And I thank God for the SHUMC fellow "lighters" these past years.
Blessings,
Dorothy Schrag (member since 1992)
