A Word from Rev Gordon

Seeking the Light Within

1 December 2024
Monthly Theme: Divine Light
Rev Gordon Bailey

So dear Sepulveda Unitarian Universalist Society and Friends,

We’ve come to the last month of 2024.

In this season, post election America, in this time, in this place we call home, we have some reflecting to do, I hope.

I’ve been your minister now for about 16 months. I’ve seen some high points for us, and a few low ones, too. We have laughed, and I believe a few of us have even shed a tear or two together. Through it all, the optimist Universalist I am has held onto a rather simple precept about us, about SepulvedaUU, about the future of SepulvedaUU, about Unitarian Universalism.

I’m remembering John Murray, Ellery Channing, Olympia Brown, Sophia Fahs, Joseph Jordan, Egbert Ethelred Brown, and so many of our clergy and laity that were visionaries. I believe these people were imbued with Divine Light.

I’ve been wondering when the spark of that illumination might touch each of you? It might embrace each of us as we step forward through the Holiday Season and into a New Year.

So, despite my misgivings about being directive, I’m gonna try it come what may.

Let us begin by imagining ourselves standing on a hilltop on a clear night, gazing at the vast expanse of stars. Each twinkling point of light, a reminder of the immense power and beauty that exists beyond our immediate sight. Today, at the moment you read this article I’m asking you to explore the concept of ‘divine light’ – not just as a celestial image, but as the guiding force of love, wisdom, and truth that resides within each of us. That, in my opinion, illuminates each life.

Lean in, dear ones.  Imagine if you will:

The Universal Light:

• In Unitarian Universalism, many believe in a unifying spiritual presence, often referred to as the “Divine,” which can be understood as a radiant light that permeates all creation.
• This light is not confined to any one religion or belief system; it is the source of our shared humanity, our capacity for compassion, and our potential for growth. It is the LOVE that give purpose and meaning to this life.
• I am aware some of us are in the midst of struggles. Some of body, some of mind, some of spiritual nature, some with all of the above and more and yet I believe deeply that we can –

Find Light in Darkness:

• Just as the sun shines through even the darkest clouds, the divine light can illuminate our lives during challenging times.
• Let us share stories of our own abilities to persevere in the darkest of times. Let’s seek stories of individuals who have overcome adversity by tapping into their inner strength and resilience, finding inspiration and hope through their struggles.
• I believe we can overcome almost anything if we put our whole selves into the creation of something new, something  someone else has overcome, something call it magical because life itself is a mystery and amazing and yet here we are!
• Dear ones, I think this applies year round but especially in this season.  You have a choice to:

Reflect the Light:

• Our actions and words are reflections of the divine light within us. Choose life affirming language!
• Try to engage and discuss the importance of living with integrity, practicing kindness, and advocating for justice, as ways to actively share this light with the world around us.
• Use the metaphor of a candle: When we light a candle, it not only illuminates our immediate space, but also inspires others to light their own candles, spreading the glow further.
• You can practice, begin, try to:

Cultivate Inner Light:

• Maybe it is time to give – this a try or another chance?
• Meditation, mindfulness practices, and spending time in nature can help us connect with our inner light.
• I’m encouraging introspection and self-reflection, inviting individuals to examine your values and motivations to ensure they are aligned with the principles of love and compassion, real UU principles and the Centering of LOVE we are espousing.
• Let’s make SepulvedaUU the place known for being:

The Light of Community:

• When we gather as a community, we collectively amplify the divine light within each other.
• Emphasize the power of shared experiences, mutual support, and celebrating the diversity of perspectives that enrich our collective spiritual journey.
• Dear ones, in this special season, hold onto hope! Hold onto dreams! Hold onto peace! Hold onto Love!

And remember to have yourself a good season of light, joy, love, friendship, caring, compassion and all good tidings!  

We are here for you!

Love to each and everyone of us,
Rev Gordon