Devotion: Tapestry of Light
“Rejoice! Rejoice! This is a time for worship. Lift up your voice and join your hearts for peace. Oh, wondrous light that brought the gift of Jesus. Oh, wondrous light that saw the gift of grace.” This breathtaking music, “A Tapestry of Light,” filled the sanctuary with joy and hope last Sunday performed by the Sheridan Celebration Choir and Orchestra. The jubilant melodies formed the foundation of the tapestry of lights based upon our current sermon series: Circle of Light.
The definition of a tapestry is defined as a thick textile fabric with pictures or designs used as a wall hanging. It can also be a reference to a sequence of events. The cantata wove the sequence of light from the creation, to the prophecy of a Messiah, the angel visiting the Virgin Mary, the wondrous birth of Jesus, the shepherds’ amazement at night, and the Three Wise Men’s journey to the Christ child. It concluded with the joyous exaltation to “Arise, shine, for your light has come….” Isaiah 60:1. We are children of the light!
Tradition has it that long ago people put candles in their windows to reflect God’s love. It expanded to Advent wreaths and lighting indoor Christmas trees to decorating the outside of houses and commercial establishments. Our neighborhood is known for all the brightly lit trees and beautiful professionally decorated houses. The lights can be seen from afar. It would be easy to overlook our understated house with the tiny, clear lights on our bushes and little lighted trees in pots. Our lights are far from striking but still twinkle in the darkness.
Each of us has been given God’s light. Whether our light is large and powerful or small and soft, we are to share it with the world. Some of our Sheridan lights travel to our mission fields while others stay close by and sparkle in their own neighborhoods. Whatever the size of your light, be it large or small, let it shine before others that they may see your good deeds and glorify God. Shine! Shine! Shine!
Good and gracious God,
We thank you for the gift of the baby Jesus that brought his glorious gift of love into the world. Shine our lights into the darkest places that all may know your love and grace. Fill our tapestries with meaningful and loving relationships this holy season. Amen
Written by Janece Nelson
Janece and husband, Mike, have been members of Sheridan for more than 12 years. Janece is a retired mathematics instructor teaching at the middle school and college level. They are blessed with two children and three grandchildren (ages 7-13). Janece finds her greatest joy in spending time with her family and friends. Her passion is writing devotions for patients in hospitals and rehabs she sees every Monday as a Sheridan hospital visitor. As a Teammate, she also mentors girls at Boys Town. Janece credits Faith Builders and Companions in Christ for her spiritual growth.