At the start of 2024 I began lighting a candle during my morning devotions. The purpose was two-fold. First, the flame is a reminder of John 1:5, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” Second, when I blow out the candle at the end of my prayers, the smoke rises toward heaven which is a reminder that, because of our weakness, the Holy Spirit intercedes for us according to the will of God (Romans 8:26-27).
I chose to use beeswax taper candles since they burn clean with a very mild scent. I collected the inevitable drips, drops, and stubs left as each candle was used and I stored these bits away. A few days ago I melted the remnants of the 2024 beeswax and made a small votive candle. Last night I lit the candle a few hours before midnight. The 2024 Remnants candle did not last all the way to midnight, but the wax was fully consumed, a reminder that time cannot be reclaimed from the past. We can only make wise use of our remaining time (Ephesians 5:15-16).
I pray your time in 2025 will be thoughtfully and prayerfully spent.
