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Parties are sometimes the result of long and detailed planning. They involve decorations, music, food, and formal invitations.

Sometimes, though, parties break out in an all-of-a-sudden kind of way when somebody notices that there is reason to celebrate—right now!

You might think of the Scriptures as one huge invitation to God’s party. See if you can’t find a good reason—right now—to join the celebration.

Listen

“You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.

Matthew 5:14–16

Think

One of my favorite hymns begins, “I want to walk as a child of the light. I want to follow Jesus.”

It’s not hard to imagine a world covered in darkness. Close your eyes. What do you see? Keep them closed and you could bump into all sorts of things—furniture, trees, people—hurting them and hurting yourself. You wouldn’t dare move. Your life, everyone, would be ruled by fear.

But as the hymn continues, “God set the stars to give light to the world.” We don’t have to live in fear. God illuminated the world, showing us the way. God’s light is so strong it shines in our hearts so that we can see and light the path for others with kindness, gratitude, and forgiveness. Uncover your eyes, receive God’s light, and let God’s light shine through you.

The hymn ends, “Shine in my heart, Lord Jesus.”

Jenifer Gamber

Pray

God who sets the stars in the sky, uncover my eyes of darkness. Illuminate my way so that I can walk in your light. Shine in my heart so that I can shine light for others. Amen.

Go

It takes at least two to celebrate;
But, you know, the more the merrier!

God has made all the preparations
And now awaits your response.

Why not join all the many others
Who have also joined the party?

It’s the best celebration ever!