Lighthouse

Is there anything more symbolic on the coast than a lighthouse? The image brings to mind safety and danger…guidance and warning.

We have visited one of Canada’s most recognized lighthouses, Peggy’s Cove in Nova Scotia, twice now. Both times the weather has been a little miserable – cold, windy, fog all around. On our third time past the area we were undecided as to whether to stop in again. The day was sunny and warm. No winds were blowing as we left Halifax. As we neared the cove however the fog was rolling in and so we didn’t stop.

The voice in my head was muttering just a bit! I just wanted a nice picture…why does it always seem to be foggy and stormy here? Then a little ‘aha’ moment…that’s why the lighthouse is here!

If there were no winds causing the waves to crash…if there were no rocky shorelines and dangerous passages…if everyday was sunny and bright and every night moonlit and calm…there would be no need of the lighthouse!

Maritime history is full of stories where the lighthouse made the difference. Lives saved. Disaster averted.

There are also stories of tragedy. When the beacon of the lighthouse was ignored or missed…or the light went out. Lives were lost…disaster happened.

Take note of where most lighthouses stand…alone…often on a barren rocky shoreline…some in a place where they face constant battering by the wind and waves…yet faithfully the light shines out, day after day…night after night.

The lighthouse is there to make a difference…to serve a purpose…entirely for others…

Listen to the words of Jesus:

“You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” (Matt.5:14-16)

A light isn’t made to hide. It is made to shine…to dispel darkness…to show the way to safety.

Sometimes though that light stands alone, much like the lighthouse.

You may be the only light in your family, at your workplace or on your street. That can feel like a barren rocky place…that can leave you feeling lonely and battered…maybe even despairing the darkness that surrounds you.

But you are a light! Jesus called you to be a light and placed you where you are to be a light! Be encouraged! You are where you are for a reason. You do make a difference. You are making a difference! Some of that difference you may get to see…some of it you will not know… but keep on! Be faithful! Let your light shine!

Ruth