Even though it occurred many years ago, my mother-in-law Judy never lets me forget about it. We were in a restaurant and the waitress had just brought our food. Judy asked me to pass her the ramekin (the small ceramic dish with the dressing in it). I stared at her blankly as I had no idea what she was saying. I had never heard that word before, so I was clueless about what she wanted me to do. Judy was greatly amused since I was someone who prided himself on having a strong vocabulary. She even tipped the waitress a little extra for using the ramekin 🙂

I’ve been thinking about that story from our family lore in the context of our theme for this school year “See the Light…Be the Light” based on John 8:12. God’s Word can be a light that illuminates and provides understanding when we are searching for answers. I love the way Psalm 119:130 puts it: “The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple.” I don’t know about you, but I feel pretty “simple” sometimes (not just when I don’t the name of what’s on the dinner table). Life can be confusing, decisions can be hard to make, and the path forward can seem obscured. That’s when I know I need to return once again to the Word of God. I read and pray and let His truth unfold itself and light the way. Are you struggling with something in your life right now? Turn to the Bible and let God’s words provide light and understanding.