Radiant beams of light – May 2, 2025

Today’s Readings: AM Psalm 16, 17; PM Psalm 134, 135 
Dan 3:1-18; 1 John 3:1-10; Luke 3:15-22  

Last night, Sam and I went to a concert. A midweek date on a school night…what a rare treat! We grabbed dinner and as the rain drops began to fall, we walked into the venue. We stood near the back as the main event took the stage. I loved the music, and I was also captivated by the lights during the show. It was not a high-tech display. I watched as the beams of light moved out over the crowd, from a bold spot at the source to an expanding gentle blanket of color. That outward movement of energy is what stays with me this morning, both with the power of light and the power of God’s love.

As I reflect on the retelling of Jesus’ baptism in Luke, I image as heaven was opened up and the Holy Spirit descended upon Jesus “in bodily form like a dove”, there was also a beam of light fanning out and surrounding the Son of God. In the spotlight, a voice resounded from the heavenly spaces, “You are my Beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” Following baptism, Jesus went out to pray and reflect in the wilderness, faced with temptations. Then he began to teach in the synagogue and to heal the afflicted and suffering. Jesus brought restoration to body, mind, and spirit through spoken word and the laying on of hands, so that the healed ones could reengage with their lives in health and wholeness. Though people sometimes longed for Jesus to stay with them, he knew he had to keep proclaiming the restorative power of God to as many as he could find. God’s light and love continued to radiate outward in ripples. Through the gift of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, the world was changed.

I wonder how Jesus sees us attending to the light and love of God today. Sometimes I forget it is there. I get focused on earthly constraints and tensions. And yet, I believe and have seen that God’s light radiates from our words, our eyes, our very presence. I wonder how many among us are in tune with God’s love within and around us. As you go through this day, perhaps you will see a ray of light. Look for the source and then look where it is landing. Remember the power of light and the power of God’s love. Shine a wisp of that light with others, through encouragement, compassion, and truth in love. It is not easy; I pray that we each lean upon the courage of the Holy Spirit as we radiate the light of Christ.

Faithfully,

Katherine+

Reflection and Challenge

How do you shine the light of Christ? When is it hard? When does it feel natural?

Ponder and pray how God is calling you to share the resurrection hope of Jesus in this Easter season.