Be Light

Caroline,

Life is about to change. This week you begin school. You go from slow mornings and boundless days to classes and homework, schedules and practices. You go from family to friends. You go from home to world. We are sending you out.

Your mom and I know you’re ready. Every day you remind us you’re ready. Your endless energy, your active mind, your desire to learn…you are ready for school.

And as you go, as the excitement builds, as the fun begins, as the craziness starts, this is my prayer for you, that you be light.

As you enter the world, be light. You will encounter good days and bad days. You will meet good people and bad people. You will hear good words and bad words. You will see beautiful stories and broken lives. You will experience joy and sorrow, the delight of praise and the sting of hurtful words. You will have choices to make. You will have questions. At times, life will feel like a pathless wood. Other days the trail will open up to you in straightaways and plains. But no matter what, no matter where, no matter who…be light.

Be the light that shines in the dark. Be the candle among shadows. Be the torch. Stand out. Be different. Speak up. Do right. Be courageous. Be light.

I know this is God’s will for your life. In Christ Jesus, he has made you light. He who is light is in you. And he who is light will sustain you and keep you. He will make his face to shine upon you and give you peace. Bask in that light. Absorb that light. Reflect that light. Be that light.

The days ahead will be so fast and so fun, and I know you will do great. I’m so proud of you! But my hope and prayer is that more than anything you be light.

“…now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light…” (Ephesians 5:8).

Cheering for you!

Love,
Dad