Tuesday

Exodus 34:29-35 … the skin of his face was shining
Psalm 27:1-3 … the Lord is my light
Daniel 3:22-28 … walking in the middle of the fire
Acts 9:1-8 … suddenly a light flashed around Saul

Lighted candles are an important part of many worship services. We light candles when we gather in groups large and small to call to mind that God is with us.

When companions and retreatants meet for our daily sessions, lighting a candle reminds us that God is the focus of the week. Many of us use candles in our private prayer time as well.

Over the years I have found meditative styles of worship to be particularly meaningful in my spiritual journey. The churches in my area, across denominations, take turns hosting monthly meditative gatherings in the Taizé style. We sing short, simple songs repetitively, pray aloud for the world around us and pray silently for an extended period. People are invited to come forward to kneel by the cross, if they wish. Sharing in the singing and joining in silent contemplation encourages my spirit and brings awareness of the presence of the Giver of Light. Each person carries a lit candle as we process in song to a darkened room. The circle of faces lit by candles is beautiful. After sharing in worship together, strangers now become spiritual companions.

I imagine the face of Moses as he came down the mountain – radiant, peaceful, full of the assurance that God was with him and the struggling band of refugees in his charge. I wonder where we feel comfortable letting the light of God shine from our faces when we leave the worship space?

The light of worship candles reflects God’s light in the faces of those with whom we journey, even if only for a short time. As we experience the abundance God longs to share with us in prayer, may we shine as God’s light revealing that abundance to the world.

1. Cameron

For Reflection and Journaling:

1. When have I seen the light of God reflected through another?
2. When have I been aware of God calling me to be light for another?

Meditative Prayer:

God who is love, your light reminds me that you dwell within me,
and that I am called to live in charity and love. Amen.

Week of Guided Prayer Network, Western Ontario Waterways Region, The United Church of Canada, 2018.