Once upon a time, we went to Mammoth Cave National Park. When we arrived, we were a bit dismayed to find that many of the tours were already booked. One tour, however, had openings – The Lantern Tour. We booked the tour and are so glad we did. The tour is exactly what it says it is. We walked into the cave having only lanterns to light our way, just as the initial spelunkers would have done. There were about 20 of us in the group and we had about 8 lanterns. For those who have been to Mammoth Cave, you know how dark it is down there. Without light, you literally and truly cannot see the hand in front of your face! At one point in the tour, we notice a glow approaching us. I don’t know why, but it really freaked me out. Only thing could have caused that glow, and that was another light. And the only lights were held by other people. The glow of light just kept coming and coming without getting significantly brighter. But it was there. They were deep in the cave and it took them a long time to finally reach us. It was fascinating to see how long it took the other group to finally come into view and pass us by. (It was a group of college students on a research project) It was astonishing to see just how little light would light up so much darkness and how far the light would carry. God gives me this wisdom to reflect on in today’s readings. Today we read from Psalm 27: The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom should I fear? The LORD is my life's refuge; of whom should I be afraid? While it is true that there are many things that can cause us fear, the reality is that if I could ever learn to fully rely on Jesus – I mean REALLY rely on Jesus – for my peace of mind, then I honestly would not be afraid of anything. I would know that, no matter what happens to me, Jesus will give me the peace to go on each and every day. One thing I ask of the LORD; this I seek: To dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, That I may gaze on the loveliness of the LORD and contemplate his temple. Ahh - I think I found the secret. I need to spend more time in prayer and contemplation. For if I would, then I would be better in touch with what God wants of me and then I’d better understand the peace that God provides. And I’d “dwell” there every day. All the days of my life. I believe that I shall see the bounty of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait for the LORD with courage; be stouthearted, and wait for the LORD. As I search for new ways to share my faith with those around me, I think I need to do a better job of showing that I am not afraid. Even in a deep, dark cave. In the face of an uncertain world, I need to radiate God’s peace and calm. Because, I REALLY do believe that I will see the bounty of God, if only I would trust God and have a stouthearted confidence. If I can show that I am truly at ease waiting for the Lord and can do so with courage, then perhaps others may want to find that peace as well. Every day.