November, rightly, always comes with an invitation for reflection. The clocks
may have gone back and the dark nights be with us, but not all of the colour
has gone. There are splashes of red everywhere as people wear their pop-
pies with pride, and remember with gratitude a generation of selfless people
who sacrificed so much and fought for our freedom. We have so much to
thank them for, even as we fear that the lessons that should have been
learned from previous conflicts seem to have been forgotten by some in pow-
er today. In the darkness of war, good people shone bright.
We see this currently; while we weep at the plight of innocent people who are
starving and injured, we can still be grateful for the medics who are trying
their best in dire circumstances and for those people who have aid trucks
lined up, ready and waiting to drive into the destruction and help others.
In a small way, we see this here at SBC. At this time of year we have the pile
of shoeboxes, reminding us that, in a world of plenty, there are children living
in dire situations who have nothing. Throughout the year we also have the
boxes awaiting donations for the foodbank. In a country of wealth, we have
people who cannot afford to eat. We may fume at governments who allow
these situations, but we also quietly bring in gifts to fill up the boxes and food
to feed the hungry, bringing a little light into lives that otherwise must feel
very dark at times.
We are reminded then, when we reflect, that, even in the darkest of times,
there are points of light that give hope. We may not be able to fight wars, but
we can still help to win battles. We can be that light, we can do good, and we
can bring hope. Even the smallest candle overpowers the night. Keep that in
mind when things are tough and keep glowing!
Matthew 5:14–16 ESV
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do
people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light
to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that
they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heav-
en.
Sue H
