Photo and Commentary ©2025 by Darren Milam
Wednesday, October 1, 2025
Recently, we had an opportunity to visit a few cities in Switzerland. During a walking tour in the town of Bern, we visited a famous cathedral – Bern Minster, which literally translates to Bern cathedral. The construction of this structure was started in 1421 and stands as the tallest cathedral of Switzerland – measuring at 330 feet.
As you walk through a small doorway and make your way to the sanctuary, the ceiling jets upwards. In front you see beautiful stained-glass windows, over 40 feet high. The designs, the light, the color, all quite remarkable. In the image I have included a single burning candle was set on the table, with the stained glass as a backdrop.
It reminded me of the verses in Matthew 5
Verses 14-16
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
In that place, I thought of this lonely candle, surrounded by various lights and colors. Did the surroundings change the way that candle burned and showed its own light? No. Nor should we. We have an opportunity, an obligation, to shine as well. Verse 14 says, “We are the light of the world.” Our light is the reflection of God’s goodness. If we choose to cover ourselves, and hide our light, we are ultimately hiding God’s love.
It may not always be easy, but we need to choose to show our light, and reflect the love God has for all around us. We need to stand out, so others are able to see the God we serve.