Let Your Light Shine

  Lighting a candle is prayer
  When we have gone, it stays alight
  Kindling in the hearts and minds of others the prayers we have already offered for them and for others.   The sad, the sick and the suffering - and prayers of thankfulness too.

  Lighting a candle is a parable
  Burning itself out, it gives it gives light to others.   Christ gave himself for others.   He calls us to give ourselves.

  Lighting a candle is a symbol  
  Of love and hope, of light and warmth.   Our world needs them all.   Lord this candle that I light may it be a light from you to lighten my way through difficulties and decisions.   May it be a Fire from you to burn up my selfishness, my pride and all that is impure within me.

  Lord even if I may not stay long in your house, take this candle light as a little bit of myself that I offer to you.   Help me to continue my prayer in all that I do this day .

      (Adapted from a prayer found in a Norfolk Church)