Reflection Time:

Well, it's been a long journey, but somehow you have gotten here, to this specific spot in your life where you want to dig deeper and find a more personal relationship with God - and on behalf of all Christians of this world: welcome to the family.

We've talked a lot about finding the light and keeping that light strong despite the darkness that tries to surround us, but the truth is God will never let that light go out.

'So be strong and take courage for all you who put your hope in the Lord!' Psalm 31:24

Thinking back on all of those camp songs, or church hymns, etc. songs like 'This Little Light of Mine' and DC Talk's 'In the Light' come to mind - but what do the words really mean to you?

So often we talk about the light of God being 'a lamp unto my feet' (Psalm 119) or that "Satan's not gonna blow it out", but when we're singing/reciting these words how often do we say them with conviction, meaning and truthfulness? Let me tell you, it can be a difficult thing to says something and actually mean it. From personal experience, I can guarantee you that there have been struggles in my life that I still need to overcome, even at the ripe age - well, over 21. My continuous relationship with God is one that I know will never end but there is a certain excitement in that because of how much I know our relationship gets to expand. And yes, God is going to have me shine my light nice and high for everyone to see, sometimes when Iím feeling low, sad, embarrassed, happy, joyful, or excited amongst other things.

Scripture Time:

Light is a very important element of God's power as seen in:

Genesis1: 1-5, the creation of light

Matthew 5: 14-16, Jesus as the Light of the World

Ephesians 5: 8-14

Way back in Genesis, light was one of the first things created by God and is still one of the natural wonders of the world. However, with light comes itís opposite, darkness. Now, I donít want you to be scared of this darkness, whatever it might be in your life that you feel or know is slowing you down in your relationship with God, but I want you to know, that with God on your side, you can overcome anything.

Here are some quick ideas to help you identify where Godís light is shining through you most and other times when you can come to God and let Him shine through you more:

Quickly jot down a few times when you've been able to do something for someone else that has made them happy (ex. Open the door for a stranger, sing a song at church, help mom with the dishes, etc.)

Now, write down some times when you've felt out of control in a situation or a time when you felt that you could have stepped out in faith (ex. At a party, in an elevator with strangers, etc.)

Prayer Time:

Now, looking back on these times, pray to God and thank Him for the ways He has been able to use you as a light of God and maybe give over to Him those times you need most help with, those times when you've been afraid, nervous or scared. Believe it or not, God cares about all of those moments, happy or sad. He longs to be a part of them and longs even more to use you for His purpose. You are a Light of God and you 'can do anything through Him who gives [you] strength'. (Philippians 4: 13.)

As children of the Light, go forth and live in a world full of darkness and lead others. No matter how many times the darkness tries to extinguish that flame, itís not possible. With God on our side, we have no reason to fear.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and he will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3: 5-6

Caitlin Belanger comes from Hamilton, Ontario and for years has worked at Ryerson Camp and has more recently been hanging out with the youth group kids at Cayuga United Church. She enjoys reading novels with big words, laying down some funky music beats with her keyboard and acting like a fool for God... for the most part. If you want to know more, don't hesitate to email: caitbelanger@gmail.com. Happy Holidays to you!