What I’ve Learned About The Importance of Light

Written By Aldren Hila, Philippines

Tragedy is inevitable. It can cause us to be afraid to accept God’s purpose in our lives, and it can lead to emotional and psychological trauma or even loss of faith. People affected by tragedy need our help and support.

As a young person, I want to show my concern to those who have gone through tragic losses by helping even in the smallest of ways. Learning of the devastation caused by Typhoon Yolanda, I decided to participate in TESDA’s (Technical Educational and Skills Development Authority) Liter of Light* or Isang Litrong Liwanag project to provide aid to the survivors. After attending the course, I was given the title “solar engineer”, however I didn’t really know how I could help because the project involved machines, electricity, expertise in lighting, engineering skills, and the like. The verse, “I can do all this through him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13) gave me the motivation and courage to continue what I was doing.

Participating in this project also made me realize that one can make a difference in spite of our differing beliefs, ideas, genders, and statuses in life. This is affirmed in Scriptures where we read that as believers of Christ, we are called to be a “light” in the society we are in, so that others can see our good deeds and glorify our Father in heaven (Matthew 5:14-16).

To my fellow youth, I want to encourage you to participate in the kingdom of God and to be part of the amazing journey called “life.” Be a light that can inspire and influence others. I like how Australian Christian evangelist Nick Vujicic sums it up: “Life is not about having; it is about being.” You are not what you have done, you are what you have overcome. So starting from today, let’s strive to follow the Light and be a light. If we serve the Lord, we have already won the battle. May God bless us.

*Liter of Light was spearheaded by the US Embassy in the Philippines. It brings eco-friendly bottles of light to communities living without electricity. The Liter of Light began in the Philippines with one bottle of light. Eventually, the movement grew and was able to brighten up 28,000 homes and 70,000 lives in Metro Manila alone. Now, Liter of Light is also present in India, Indonesia, and even as far as Switzerland.