Mark Katrick faith column: Now that the days are getting shorter, let the sunshine in

On my short list of summer projects is to install a new venetian blind on my big front window. The old one had been chewed on (along with several pairs of socks) by a cat-dog of mine named Mork, who was taken from this world way too early and left a big empty space in my heart. Because the blinds are a symbol of Morkie’s faithful companionship and loyalty, I’ve been reluctant to replace them.

My kitties, Toby and Mindy, Mork’s sister, and I are blessed to share sacred space and a comfy, cozy place we call home. The only thing we are lacking is available, natural light.

On the mornings that it’s overcast, I announce that I’m “opening the curtains to let in the darkness and din.” It is also an acknowledgement that here in the midst of August, the daylight hours are already decreasing noticeably.

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Yet even during the steeliest gray days and the longest dark nights of winter, the bright shining light of a Holy One is just waiting to break through. As the Psalmist says:

“... even the darkness is not dark to you/ the night is as bright as the day/ for darkness is as light to you.” Psalm 139:12.

“This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all.” 1 John 1:5.

Come rain or shine, Mom would open up every blind and curtain all the way. Our little two-story house on a hill was well-positioned to catch every ray.

“Let the merry sunshine in!” she’d cheerily say in a figurative sense, reminding us that attitudes and outlooks set the tone for our days. For it is the light of Christ within that shines brightest.

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So before the summer turns to fall and one step closer to winter, let’s practice for what is to come. Make use of every source of natural light in your house, condominium or apartment. Open up every blind and curtain all the way.

Then cheerily announce to anyone with two legs or four paws that you’re, “Letting the merry sunshine in!” Then greet your Christ within whose night is as bright as the day, who is sure to chase your blues away. Then YouTube your favorite version of “This Little Light of Mine.” Mine is by The Seekers.

And then open up the window to your hearts by “Letting your light so shine before others so that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16) throughout the day.

Mark Katrick is a pastor and spiritual guide.

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Mark Katrick faith column: As the days get shorter, let the sunshine in