A candle, or candles, might be lit as these words gather the congregation in the Light of God.

The light of God surrounded them:

God’s light
in flames of fire within a bush
telling Moses to take off his shoes
for he is standing on Holy Ground;

God’s light
in a pillar of fire
leading the Israelites to a promised land
during darkened nights in the desert;

God’s light
in tongues of fire
hovering over frightened disciples
baptizing them with the Spirit and new life.

The light of God surrounds us:

God’s light
igniting the flames in our hearts
for peace in a troubled world
inviting Christ to be with us in worship;

God’s light
letting the sunshine in
guiding us into God’s presence
filling our spirits with light and love.

Photo: Prayer candles, Kathmandu — Thandiwe Dale-Ferguson