“This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine!”
This was one of the songs we sang during VBS this year. I think the adults enjoyed it even more than the children did! Lately, however, I have been thinking about those words in a more personal way.
I have always been an anxious person. When God called me into full time mission service, I remember asking Him if He was aware of what was happening in the world. His answer was clear: “Yes, I am aware, and I am in control.” I have not forgotten those words. Yet, as I watch the news and see what is happening in the countries around me, I sometimes find myself filled with anxiety. I worry about my safety and the possibility of not being able to return to my family. I know God is in control, but I am afraid of what might happen tomorrow.
Recently, I have been reading the book of Ecclesiastes. Ecclesiastes 3:11 reminds us that we cannot fully understand God’s work from beginning to end. We want to know what lies ahead, but God has not given us that ability Perhaps this is where I need to remember our familiar song: “this little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine!” I can’t control what happens in the world around me; but I can choose how I live today. I can encourage someone, show kindness, and faithfully serve where God has placed me, even when I feel afraid.
Sometimes fear becomes like a bushel, covering our light. We become so concerned about what might happen tomorrow that we forget the opportunities God has given us today. I don’t believe God expects me to ignore the world’s troubles. I can stay informed and take reasonable precautions. When the news becomes overwhelming, I can turn it off, pray and remember His words to me: “Yest I am aware; and I am in control”
I may not know what tomorrow holds, but I know who holds tomorrow. As Psalm 56:3 reminds me; “what time I am afraid; I will trust in thee.” Faith is not about never being afraid. It is about trusting God in the midst of fear and continuing to let His light shine. I don’t know what tomorrow holds, but I can serve God and share His light today. For today, that is enough.
This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine!”
I love the version of this song by The Oak Ridge Boys!
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