Light = Life

John 3:19-21
And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. But he who does the truth comes to  the  light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God.

Every year, during the Christmas season, we have held a candle light service.
But the focus of our service is a bit different than most you might find at this time of year. The candles that are lit symbolizes two different views. We must see the light in order to be the light. In other words, we must recognize the darkness that is in us....the heart that seeks to sin....then nature that keeps us pointed in that direction....such can only be seen when "light" is introduced into our darkness. So we are celebrating the fact that we have been redeemed from the pit of emptiness.

The lit candle also serves as a reminder of our call to carry "our light" to those who are still out there living in the darkness. Such is why we have Vineyard Recovery Church. To help train and equip so we can go back out into the world and reach out to those who haven't seen the light of God yet or, for what ever reason, have rejected it in the past. 

Candle light is amazing. It isn't so obtrusive that it blinds you but, rather draws you into the warmth and glow of its presence. Candle light comes with a beckoning to come to the light. That is how we are suppose to live our lives. Always walking around with a spiritual invitation to everyone we meet. Such an invitation doesn't always come with words that we speak. Sometimes it is more powerful by the actions and deeds we do. 

Jesus proclaimed himself to the be the light of the world.
From his own life, he has lit millions upon millions of other lights in the lives of people all around this world. Each one burning with the presence and call of the kingdom of God to love as Christ loves.

Most candle light services end with the Christmas carol, Silent Night.
We end our service with the song "You Have Redeemed My Soul."
A reminder of the great price and the wonderful gift paid for by Christ, and given to all who would accept.
As you listen to this song, let it wash over you and remember what Christ has done for you.
Merry Christmas from the "B's" in Attlla.