By a candle's glow.

A steady hand strikes a match and lights a wick with the open flame. In a dark room, a single candle burns. A ceiling fan overhead makes its rounds, causing the flame to flicker and sway. By that solitary light the entire room is visible. Even in the midst of the darkness, a distinct glow stretches out to uncover the things that lie beyond the shadows.

//

It is by a candle’s glow that we rediscover the beauty of hope. On our darkest days there is a possibility for a spark to hold and burn in the midst of adversity. The light that comes from hope, encouragement, and compassion is brighter than we ever imagined it to be.

Think of it this way - when the lights are turned on we see things very clearly and that same candle serves to provide ambiance or to fill the room with a heavenly aroma. To a certain degree we may appreciate the light it provides, but with a room full of light the candle’s significance is likely to be overlooked.

Our lives can be inundated with praise and encouragement during the most optimistic moments of our lives – and these acclamations, while valued, begin to blend into our optimistic season of life.

However - when the lights dim and the darkness closes in, that light means infinitely more. That light is our sole source of recognizing that things aren’t always as they seem in the dark; we are able to tangibly see hope from a candle’s glow. We hold on to the warmth that radiates from a seemingly insignificant spark of hopefulness.

We’ve all been in the dark. We have known the comfort of uplifting words that pierce through the dismal surroundings of our lives. The illuminating moment that follows is the moment everything about our situation turns around.

//

We can be bearers of light.

Our words can be empowering.

Our presence can be bright.

Our choice to get outside ourselves and support one another with words of assurance and acts of compassion can shine more brilliantly than we realize – and it all begins with a match.