In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men. The Light shines in the darkness and the darkness did not comprehend it (Jn. 1:4-5).

Believe it or not, but the picture (below) is a resemblance of the moonlight from a night hike that I took over Thanksgiving weekend. Hiking has always been somewhere I find peace and hope amid uncertainty, tensions, and struggles. This year I have gone on more hikes than I have in any other year. I think all of us need an avenue to find peace, hope, and joy during these crazy times! How do you find rest?

Finding “rest” always has been important to me. One of my favorite ways to find rest is through hiking. Thanksgiving weekend was no different. Prior to snapping that image, I noticed that it was going to be a full moon with a clear sky.

I had decided to go on a short hike that night. As I was walking, however, I realized how bright the moonlight was in the darkness of the woods. I did not even need a flashlight to help because the “one bright light” in the sky was all by which I needed to see. And so, I took a moment to take this picture and to reflect on what an amazing experience it is to have the moon “be my light.” That realization then transitioned to giving thanks to God for His ultimate love by bringing us hope and peace through His Son!

Where do you find hope and peace?

During that hike, I was reminded of the Christmas season. One light, in pure darkness, is stronger than the rest of the sky. This light reminded me of the hope we have because of the Incarnation of Jesus Christ.
 
And so, Christmas means God being with us and for us by sending His Son to us. Christmas is the reminder of God’s Light which reconciles His sinful world to Himself.

God’s Light brought by and through Christ is extended to all of humanity. His Light brings us hope, which in turn brings us peace and joy. Just like on my hike, the moonlight gave me peace and reminded me of hope; and for all of us, Christ’s Light reminds us that peace and hope are possible!

May the lights of this season warm your hearts, reminding you that peace is possible. The Light of the world lives in us and may the Hope you have through the Holy Spirit prompt you to offer peace to others and to find peace for yourself. Not a peace like the world offers but peace from God our Father. May you have a peace that always has its eyes on God. May the hope you have in Christ provide you with peace and love to share. Be the moonlight for others to see the marvelous light. Amen.

Written December 2020 By: Lauren Parliament