Northern Lights
by Pastor Jeff Holter
Photo Credit: Sally Sundeen
A few weeks ago, we were showered with the beauty of the northern lights. They swirl and turn in just the right way to appear that they are showering us with star lights from heaven. The distinctive greens and reds and oranges, and the mesmerizing turquoise blues lure me into thinking I can defy gravity and fly. This past week was no different.
It was kind of late when my wife Joan and I went for a ride to witness the display of lights, (chilly too). The main objective is to find a place that is dark enough so that one can see the lights without allowing the ambient city lights to obscure the beauty of the heavenly display.
On Sunday, Nov. 30, we will begin a journey that brings us from our mundane everyday existence into the presence of the light of the world. Even now, the light exists in each of us, but is in a constant battle with many ambient lights that are trying to extinguish its radiance and its message of hope. The light of the world also comes to shower us with a message: that although darkness is everywhere, it cannot overcome the light.
Soon it will be a new year. It’s the second year of the existence of the Bridge of Faith Parish and as we enter this new year, it is our prayer that God continues to shine on us with the light of his son. Jesus is that true north star that guides us and invites us to come follow Him. Still, we are not naïve; in fact, we are very much aware that the ambient light of the world is constantly trying to outshine Jesus’ presence in our lives. We have endured a very difficult year in 2025. But we have also been blessed. The gospel of grace and peace in Christ has been preached and lived and shared here. We are alive in Christ, and fear has not outshined Jesus’ message of life and salvation. Hallelujah!
Keep your eyes on Jesus, that true light from heaven. Take care of each other, lift each other up in prayer and thoughts of peace. Make it known that your hope is in the light that can overcome darkness and bring a new day to be lived in joy and love. Enjoy this Advent season everybody!
Peace, Pastor Jeff
