This Little Light

David Steindl-Rast wrote, “The noise of life distracts us. The silence and inner stillness centers us. We connect, find life’s rhythm, and dance. In love, commitment, and connection.” It’s easy to be distracted in this world, a world filled with constant noise. Silence and inner stillness are the rudder and oars of my boat. Without this centering practice, I cannot find direction or know my next step. For me, this practice begins each morning. Throughout the day, I feel its ripple effects, bringing me moments of peace and stillness that help me remain open to connect—with my neighbors, with nature, and with God. It’s a rhythm, a dance. Love is waiting for me, patiently and faithfully, on the other side of the noise.

This morning, I read Matthew 5: “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on a stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” I was reminded of a song I sang as a child and later taught to kids as a worship leader: This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine... let it shine, let it shine. Rooted in African American spirituals and folk tradition, this song and scripture remind me that we all need light—love, commitment, and connection—from God and others. And we are called to share that light with those around us. That humble little light holds a powerful presence in the darkness, a presence that needs no words because it cannot be hidden. All we need to do is simply let it shine.

Today, may I not be distracted by the noise. May I dance and row my boat. May I light up my world with love, commitment, and connection—light that needs no words and cannot be hidden.

Photo by Valya Polishchuk on Unsplash