Enlightenment

[ this was originally written on Sat Aug. 17 ] 

  I had a bit of an enlightenment tonight. I went to a friend's place, not for enlightenment, but for food and entertainment.  But in the midst of it all, I was enlightened.  I began to see anew what being enlightened means.  It's not something that springs forth or that we muster or conjure up inside of ourselves.  Just the opposite.  It's a gift, something that we receive, as we realize that we actually lack it and need it.  We admit our need, reach out, and receive the truth about ourselves :: our heart is in need of the Light.  We are not the source of this light :: in fact, the darkness in ourselves is what PREVENTS the light from shining in our hearts.  We oftentimes live in the shadows of the darkness, and hide from God's glorious Light.  There is nothing wrong with the Light.  His Light is all-encompassing and complete.  It pierces our humble spirits.  It is only when we create and hide behind our barriers of pride that His Light is inhibited, for he will not go where he is not invited and welcomed by faith.     

[SCRIPTURES: James 4:6-10; Rom. 2:4; 2 Cor. 3:18, 4:4-7]

[PRAYER:  God, help me let go of the chains of darkness, and embrace Your Light.  Come and set me free.  May you be glorified in our spirits and our bodies, which are yours.  Amen.]