Growing up, my parents used to take my sisters and me to local museums occasionally, helping us appreciate and learn more about our fine city.
My favorite one had this big dinosaur exhibit and was built like a castle when you looked at it from outside.
But the one that sticks in my memory the most would have to be the Museum of Science and Technology.
I wouldn’t say it was the best one (not that any of the museums were bad) but it did have features that drew my attention the most.
Inside, there was this spot called the Crazy Kitchen, which had you walk through a tiny space on a slanted angle. There was also another attraction that allowed you to place your hand on a shiny ball, prompting your hair to stand straight up.
While these were cool enough for a kid under 10 years old, what really caught my eye were a giant railroad locomotive and tall lighthouse, both stationed prominently outside near the museum’s main entrance.
That was my first live encounter with a lighthouse. I have since seen another one each time I visit relatives in Rhode Island, as my uncle and I often head to a scenic spot by the ocean for early-morning reflection time and there’s one standing as a nearby landmark.
About the only other time a lighthouse crosses my mind is when I hear a song played by the Christian band Rend Collective.
One of their most popular tunes, My Lighthouse, is so catchy I can’t help but beat my hands together and bang a foot on the ground each time I hear it.
The song gives me so much energy just through the music alone, but when I focus on the lyrics, I feel even more of a charge.
Every occasion I listen, I am reminded of God’s powerful and unwavering presence around me. Particularly when I’m feeling down or battling some hardship, the words lift me with this huge boost of reassurance, as if God is standing right before me, providing security as a lighthouse does.
Think about it – just what purpose exactly does a lighthouse serve? That tall structure off in a distance primarily delivers navigational aid to ships at sea and warns boaters of dangerous areas.
During His earthly ministry recorded in the New Testament and in modern times today, Jesus always stands by His followers, leading us through our lives and offering direction for joy and success – both on earth and in Heaven.
Christ never shies away from an opportunity to give His people shelter from storms while lighting a path for our protection in times of trouble. (Matthew 4:16)
No matter how raging the waters of life, much like a lighthouse, our Lord stands strong and supplies needed comfort through His teachings. (Psalm 119:105)
When we experience difficulty or are feeling lost in our lives, there are several outlets we can pursue in order to find rescue. Many of us turn to family or friends in conversation, or seek professional counselling. Others may resort to isolated contemplation in a remote area or unhealthy, ill-advised practices such as recreational drug use.
The question holds, however, will we follow the true path leading to the beacon light we so desperately need in our daily living? (John 14:6)
In moments of fear or uncertainty when waves of all types are crashing upon us, let us express the courage to follow Jesus.
Only in placing our trust and hope in Him can we be led safely to the shores of peace.
As a teacher in a Catholic high school, it is not uncommon, sadly, for me to hear students use profanity every once in a while (or more often than that). Walking in the halls or out in the schoolyard, students can easily drop the occasional swear word as part of their regular conversation. Teachers may even hear students curse in the classroom, as surprising as that might seem.
God's Giveaways 