November 30, 2025 - Shine

Shine

by Carol Powell

Sunday, November 30, 2025

Scripture: Isaiah 60:1-5

I wiped the sweat off my neck and struggled to catch my breath as I completed my workout. So frustrating! I used to do this with ease, but now my joints complain, my back hurts. How did I get old so fast? Why do I seem to dwell more on memories than than what will be? Thoughts randomly flit through my head: an old friend long gone, something my mother told me, something I wish I had done better, an action I wish I could take back. I rarely look forward, only behind.

I glance at the scripture I was reading earlier from Isaiah 60:

“Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you. See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the people’s, but the Lord rises upon you and his glory appears over you

My LIGHT has come?? I’m nearly 74 years old. Not shining so much anymore. I indulged myself with these kinds of thoughts a bit longer. After all, I’m much closer to the end of my life than the beginning. And that’s when He spoke up. Or maybe that’s when I paused enough to hear his voice:

Why would I send you a second chance at love at 67 years old if your light couldn’t shine? Why would I give you experience and wisdom to lead a Bible study in your seventies, or find new ways to serve the church if your flame was extinguished? With whom have you shared a prayer, or a recipe, or given comfort to just in this past week?

Joy of Aging by Joanne Turney

And just like that, my God reminded me that while I might not move as quickly or accomplish things as easily, I am still His, and I am still “fearfully and wonderfully made” for those things He calls me to do at this stage in my life. I can still lead, I can still learn, I can still listen and follow His will. I can still love deeply, gasp in awe at the beauty of the world and its creatures. I can cry at yet another glorious Christmas cantata, smile at the wonder on a child’s face as she marvels at the glow of holiday lights. There is a light within all of us, young and old, that God has placed there so that we shine for the world. We are called to carry this light-the light of Christ-to the very end of our days. And if we’ve done it right, His light will continue to shine, long after we are gone. 

Lord Jesus,

Master of both the light and the darkness, send your Holy Spirit upon our preparations for Christmas. 

We who have so much to do and seek quiet spaces to hear your voice each day, 

We who are anxious over many things look forward to your coming among us. 

We who are blessed in so many ways long for the complete joy of your kingdom. 

We whose hearts are heavy seek the joy of your presence. 

We are your people, walking in darkness, yet seeking the light.
To you we say, "Come Lord Jesus!'
Amen.

- Henri J.M. Nouwen