Helping when the Light Grows Dim

by Cowboy Bob Sorensen 

On Christmas Eve 2024, I attended the evening church service. Scriptures read, songssung, sermon preached. The conclusion brought everything home to the attenders, as on the way in, we were given small candles with clear plastic cups as shields.

The lights were dimmed and the pastor took his flame from the Advent candle. He then lit the candles of other people. It did not take long before the sanctuary had many glows, then we sang "Silent Night." But there was almost a problem.

Candle at Christmas Eve service (cropped), Unsplash / Zac Cain

Having a view from the balcony, I saw that someone below was having a problem. Her light was dimming and there would be no flame in just a few seconds. She was given help from the person next to her, and I saw an illustration of something that should be a major part of every Christian's life.

Centuries ago, I heard a sermon that exhorted Christians to be "need meters." Aside from the silly mental image I had of gauges and things, it resonated with me because that is something I have long believed: We need to meet needs when we are able. Unfortunately, Christians are often selfish like other people, and need to be reminded. Indeed, Paul told us to do good to people, especially other believers (Galatians 6:10 NIV).

We can encourage hurting people, or even offer to help other believers who may having problems with their faith and conduct. Someone may resist and say, "You're not the boss of me," but should instead listen to another believer who wants to admonish or encourage them — which should be done in love, not pride. (Yes, it's in the New Testament.) While some folks have a spiritual gift of encouragement, we can all do it to some extent.

Someone's flame is going out. You want to reach over and offer your candle? We don't want that light to go out.