This
season has already started out with so many people being sick, and the threat
of the disease is very real.. We need to remember during these trying and
frightening times that Jesus brought forth light into the darkness. Over 90
years ago we faced similar conditions, but then as now we can celebrate Jesus as
the light of the world.
This was plainly seen by thousands of people
during the American influenza epidemic of 1918. During the height of that
plague, churches and all public gathering places were ordered closed. Yet more
than ever, it was then that people needed hope and consolation. Burdened by his
inability to reach out to people in their time of need, one resourceful pastor
thought of the magnificent stained glass windows
that graced his church. Those windows faced a major thoroughfare and were
large and commanding in design. He had numerous floodlights placed inside
the church; illumination through the glass to the outside world gave passers-by
the full effect of the windows story.
There
for all to see were the matchless portrayals of Jesus: Jesus the good shepherd
bearing a lamb on his bosom; Jesus the searching Savior rescuing the
lone lost sheep while the ninety-nine rested safely on the fold; Jesus praying
in Gethsemane; Jesus on the cross; Jesus triumphant in
Resurrection glory.
The silent sermons of light and stained glass spoke an eloquent message.
The
Gospel of John puts it this way: The true
light that gives light of every man was coming into the world.
People who passed by the church would stop
reverently, silently. They found themselves filled with new resolve and encouragement.
They saw ever more clearly in that age of sickness the light of
Christ glory which was coming into the world.
Be wise today and always - celebrate Christ every day of the year
