A Glimmering Light Is Not Enough

Light is a very interesting thought. I guess I can call it a thought because even scientists still argue over whether light is a type of energy or matter. In a review of some of the early medieval authors I reread some of Augustine’s Confessions. I came across an interesting concept. In the end of chapter X, section 33, Augustine says, “Why are they not happy? It is because they are more occupied in other things which make them more wretched then their tenuous consciousness of the truth that makes them happy. For among humanity there is ‘still a little light.’ May they walk, may they indeed walk, ‘so that the darkness does not capture them’ (John 12:35).” I like this. Augustine is describing how all people have a hint or flicker of light in them of where true happiness comes from, that is in Christ. I like how he points out that the reason why many never and we all often do not look to that source of light. People begin to become satisfied or desire things that are less than Perfection. We all get ‘caught up’ in busy things throughout the day, week or year that demand our attention. Yet, something more important demands our attention that we often pass by. I hope that as the summer draws nigh and then after a new season of school begins, we can all set aside specific moments and times to recognize where true happiness comes from and meditating on Him. I also would like to translate the passage in a second way. Within Christianity, especially the Christian arts, people often become satisfied with unsatisfactory work. When Christians attempt music, film, and other various industries they often fail. The problem is not their failure, but rather how they fail. You see, Christians should be making the best kind of art. Let me clarify that a song should not be the best song because it mentions Jesus a couple times, how much we love Him, etc… Christians should musically compose the best songs. For instance, Bach was a devout Christian and his songs are orchestrated and often do not have words to accompany them! The way I see this trend relating to the text is that often times an artists and workers become satisfied with becoming more occupied with outside things that make them more wretched. Christians should not go about their work frivolously! They should go at it with a fervor that no other human being can, because one can’t without Christ. They should also have the best films or music or artwork because the eternal Creator that created art, music and film working through them. In short, don’t be satisfied with getting by, but push forth because you have a higher calling and a greater Help.

“In the same way, let your light shine before men so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16.