Candles

For those pyromaniacs out there like me this is an interesting topic. Those who know me have probably seen my love for candles. I especially love to use them during worship. Candles are not just a method of creating light but oh so much more than they seem. Candles create a comfortable and warm atmosphere and create a method of lighting. They are also commonly used figuratively, we talk about the light from candles, lighting our path, our lives as a light, the word of God as a light. There are many different kinds and sizes of candle to produce weak or strong light, light that will last for only a short while, or lamps that can burn for days.

Another common way the Catholics use candles are for prayers and remembrance. While I was in NYC with my choir we visited St. Timothy's Cathedral and besides the beautiful architecture one thing that drew me in was all the little side alcoves. In one of the larger ones was a table full of candles. Some lit, some not. People would come in and lite them for whatever purpose they chose and then leave it. Candles hold so many purposes, they can be practical, symbolic, or whatever anyone wants to use them for.

One thing I like to do with groups is set out two tea lights for everyone at worship. I tell everyone to take some time to talk with God and when they are ready to come light their candle from the big one (the Christ candle) that represents God shining through them and it is a candle dedicated to themselves. The other one is for someone else. In memory, praying for someone, whatever it may be, that is their choice. Then when I blow them out individually I say a prayer for each candle. It is a fun calming and centering exercise that I find always helps set the stage for some wonderful worship.

In conclusion here are some verses about candles and light.
Psalm 119:105
105 Your word is a lamp to my feet
and a light for my path.
Isaiah 62
1 For Zion's sake I will not keep silent,
for Jerusalem's sake I will not remain quiet,
till her righteousness shines out like the dawn,
her salvation like a blazing torch.
Revelation 4:5
5From the throne came flashes of lightning, rumblings and peals of thunder. Before the throne, seven lamps were blazing. These are the seven spirits[a] of God.
Exodus 27:21
21 In the Tent of Meeting, outside the curtain that is in front of the Testimony, Aaron and his sons are to keep the lamps burning before the LORD from evening till morning. This is to be a lasting ordinance among the Israelites for the generations to come.
Please feel free to leave any fun stories (this little light of mine at camp with flashlights) or any thoughts you have!
God Bless!
your sister in Christ~Erin
*prayer request
1. My friend Justin was in a car accident recently and in a wheelchair for the next few months
2. I have been sick and am worse today, like missing class sick =(