“No one lights a lamp and puts it in a place where it will be hidden, or under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, so that those who come in may see the light.”

Luke 11:33 (NIV)

Listen to Words from the Heart

Lamp

About 80 km east of Quebec City but on the south shore of the St Lawrence River, is Saint-Jean-Port-Joli. Long the home to dozens of artists and craftsmen of all types and their ateliers, it is chiefly renowned as Canada’s most important centre for wood sculpture. This is mainly because of the Bourgault family who, along with the Carons and others, began generations ago to produce exquisite works depicting traditional themes and everyday scenes from old rural Quebec life. Their lamps are found in many Canadian homes.

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A friend of mine grew up Amish. They had no electricity and none of the modern conveniences. Then his father met Jesus in a powerful way and they left the Amish community. My friend can still remember the first day they had electricity. It completely changed their lives in so many ways. The moment we receive Jesus as Saviour and Lord, it’s like we are experiencing spiritual electricity. One of the first things that happens is that we are brought from spiritual darkness into the light of His love and grace. Jesus put it this way in Luke 11:33: “No one lights a lamp and puts it in a place where it will be hidden, or under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, so that those who come in may see the light.” The gift of light is something that we celebrate. This is true in the physical realm and Jesus says that it is also true in the spiritual realm. When we come into a relationship with Jesus, the light comes on. His love and joy naturally flows from our lives. Jesus reminds us to keep that light shining bright.

These have been words from the heart.
Bob Beasley