Be A Light

The world has been crazy for a while now. But it seems as if it gets crazier by the day. The government has been shut down for a month now. Imagine — just imagine that it’s your paycheck being affected. And I know for some of you, it actually is. My husband retired from the prison system, so we understand how difficult times like this can be. We’re hopeful paychecks will start rolling in soon, but hope alone doesn’t make the struggle easier.

So how do we be a light in a dark world?

It’s easier than we think — if we’re willing to put forth the effort.

We carry our phones everywhere, we’re glued to them most of the day. So why not use them for something meaningful? A simple text or call to check on someone can go a long way. Let them know you’re thinking about them. Offer help if they need it.

We can also show kindness physically. Grab a buggy for someone at the grocery store. Hold the door instead of rushing through. Show someone you have time for them.

And remember — smiling is absolutely free. It isn’t weird either. I love when someone I don’t even know smiles at me. Lately, I’ve been pretty down after losing my son. When someone smiles at me for no reason, I can’t help but smile back. It makes me feel seen. It makes me feel good.

How about a good old-fashioned letter or card sent through the mail? My dear friend Joyce Davison is one of the most Godly and amazing women I know. She has sent me the kindest letters, cards, and poems. I sometimes wonder what I ever did to deserve such a wonderful person in my life.

Pray with someone. People struggle silently more than you know. When someone feels alone and another person offers to pray with them — that can mean everything.

Give your time. Stop by for a visit, bring a meal or a sweet treat, or invite someone to dinner. No one wants to feel forgotten. Sometimes a friend surprises me with a coffee — that always makes my day. And if it’s not coffee, maybe their favorite snack. Small gestures can lift heavy hearts.

And don’t just check in once. Follow up. Remind them you haven’t forgotten them or their situation.

Words matter. Encouragement matters. Being a bright voice in someone’s dim moment might change their entire day.

Sometimes asking “How can I help?” gives people an easy chance to say “I’m fine.” Instead try:
“I want to bring you dinner — what day works?”
or
“I’d like to help by doing ___ for you.”
It’s harder for them to decline love that’s already in motion.

We can cheer on our people too — new moms, new wives, new Christians, and everyone in between. We all need a little pep and support sometimes.

Whatever you do, do it with your heart. If your intentions are good and pure, they will be accepted and appreciated. The Bible tells us to love our neighbors. What better way than to show it?

I hope y’all have a good week. I’m praying that November brings better days — and that we can look forward to gathering around a Thanksgiving table with the people we love. And don’t forget those who might not have a place to go or a meal to eat. If you can, share what you have.

Live in such a way that your life points to Him — where every word, every act of love, and every step of faith reflects His glory.
— Unknown