“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” -Matthew 5:16
The Christmas season is a season of light. Houses and trees are covered in lights. Candles fill the sanctuary. Some people creatively wrap their vehicles in Christmas lights. Among the many decorations at Christmas, we most often use lights to mark the season. That is because Christmas is the season when the light of heaven entered our world. The book of Isaiah records it best when it says, “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.” (Isaiah 9:2)
Christmas also inspires us to reflect the loving light of Christ onto the World. Weston Moore is a young man who let his light shine this past Christmas by giving a generous, selfless gift. Weston learned that his school was going to have a raffle for a bicycle. He knew that it would be the perfect gift for his sister, Addysn. Weston began to devise a plan to make sure he could bless his sister on Christmas Day.
Weston’s school rewards students for good behavior with “wolf bucks.” This money can be used at the school store and for other events. When Weston learned that he could buy tickets for the raffle with his “wolf bucks,” he did not hesitate. He went and cashed in everything he had been saving to buy as many chances as possible. He knew his sister would love that bike.
Weston won! On Christmas Day, he was able to give Addysn a mountain bike. That morning, Weston’s sister was brought to tears when her brother revealed his gift to her. Weston was maybe even happier than Addysn that morning when he saw how his selfless generosity blessed his sister and his family. The joy of that family was evident in their smiles and tears. The video was shared on social media and the news. Millions have now been able to share in the joy as well. It was a beautiful moment as the light of Christmas shone through the actions of a little brother who wanted to give his sister a gift.
We too can be a light in this world. We can reflect the light of God’s love to our neighbors. When we are willing to be generous with our time, our skills, and our resources, we can help others experience the life God intends for all.
-Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
