During December, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints join in an initiative to bring light into the world through Christ-like acts of service. Over the 25 days of Christmas, they will feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and mourn with those that mourn. Videos will provide inspiration and scriptures will remind us that Christ is our exemplar.
What if, however, you are one of those who feel surrounded by darkness? What if you are desperately waiting for any drop of light to come and bring back some light into the cold winter of your life? You may be facing physical adversities that leave you unable to do what you would like to do. Your mental health may be worsening as the stress of the holiday season approaches. Your finances may be suffering, with a significant lack of presents under the tree.
Whatever struggle is overwhelming you, we believe it is possible not only to find some light for yourself but to share it with others. Here are just a few things to consider.
Service Brings Light…No Matter How Small
There is nothing that will help you forget your own troubles like serving others. We know how impossible this can feel during times of trial. Acts of service can seem beyond our means, physically, financially, or emotionally. It is important to remember even the smallest ways we reach out can have a great impact.
A smile. A prayer for someone. A quick message on social media. Prayerfully focus on the small things you can do. Not only will you be serving someone else, but you will find joy and confidence in achieving a goal you’ve set for yourself.
Keep Your Heart Open & Be Vulnerable
Do you find it hard to ask for help? You’re not alone. Many people struggle with being vulnerable. We don’t like to appear weak. We may feel ashamed of our suffering. We have a hard time telling the truth about our inner feelings. If this time of year is about light, then our hearts are the first place to start. Strive to open up your heart and let that light in.
Reach out to a trusted family member or friend and discuss some of the things you’re struggling with. Be honest when someone asks how you are and take people up on their offers to help you. Ask for what you need.
Darkness Cannot Overcome Light
Have you ever turned on a light in a dark room and watched how the room slowly grows brighter? This illustrates an important principle. Darkness can never overcome light. When you open the door and turn on your porch light, the darkness doesn’t come seeping into your room. It is the light that spills out. Remembering this can give us the strength to hold onto the light in our lives. Don’t just focus on fighting the darkness away. Add light.
How to Add Light
How do you add light to your life? As we mentioned, the Church’s Light the World campaign is full of ideas to serve. We suggest going through each day on Mormon.org and reading through the different service ideas.
At the heart of this initiative, however, is the truth that Jesus Christ is the ultimate light of our lives. The ways we serve over these 25 days are meant to bring us and others closer to him. Regardless of how you serve or whether you can, focus on learning about Christ and building a personal relationship with him. By doing that, you will naturally bring light into the world.
Aleah is a graduate of Southern Virginia University, where she studied English, Creative Writing, and Dance. She now works full time as a marketing and product manager, writer, and editor. She currently hosts the podcast “Single to the Glory” about singlehood in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Aleah served a mission in California and loves baking, Lang Leav poetry, Gaynor Minden pointe shoes, and Bollywood movies.
