Sitting on the deck the other night, I watched fireflies speckling the yard with their glow, just one more example of an amazing Creator. Those lights brought back childhood memories of running around in a little river town in Illinois, chasing them down and putting them in a jar. Seeing them reminded me of a quote that I find both powerful and relevant: “Just like with fireflies that have been captured, when you feel trapped your light goes out.”
Have you ever felt trapped? Has there ever been a season in your life in which your light went out? Have you ever felt like your spark for life had diminished? I certainly have. Sometimes, a change is necessary—whether it’s a change of location, job, boundaries, focus, or even friends. Our lights, like those of lightning bugs, are not fixed and beyond need of being rekindled from time to time.
Many times a pivot in life is helpful, but what do you do when changing your surroundings isn’t an option, such as during incarceration? This question is at the very heart of prison ministry. To make a difference, we must help others find a way to navigate life and acquire hope regardless of whether or not they ever get out of prison.
I think the words of Hebrews 11:24-26, which speaks of Moses’ faith, are helpful: “By faith Moses, when he was grown up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, choosing rather to be mistreated with the people of God than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin. He considered the reproach of Christ greater wealth than the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking to the reward.”
Moses made a difficult, purpose-driven choice by declining the pomp and status of his royal surroundings and choosing the embarrassment and pain of aligning himself with the people of God. He weighed his options and determined that there was more value in being with God without the masses of Egyptian wealth than having such without God. The focus of Moses’ heart was on what was most important, thus he set his mind on the reward. If you find someone who lives a life of hope, you can rest assured their hearts are anchored on the other side.
All of us can relate to that captured firefly; however, with God’s help and the wisdom of Moses, we can not only acquire but pass on to others the hope that is promised of God. As we navigate our daily lives, may we choose a path focused on and anchored in HOPE.
You are loved!
Les
