“The Lighthouse in the Storm”
by Rev Dr Ray Francis -- as an illustration to accompany the Sunday message on 9-28-2025

There once was a small coastal village constantly threatened by violent storms. In an effort to keep the community safe they built a grand lighthouse on the rocks to provide protection for the community, to proclaim the glory of God, and to serve everyone and keep them safe. 

Over time some of the villagers built their homes near the shore, seeking the beauty of the sea and the wealth it brought through fishing. Over time, some became obsessed with acquiring bigger boats and more valuable nets, thinking that their safety depended on wealth and possessions.

One night, a violent hurricane approached. Many villagers panicked, clinging to their valuables, while others ran toward the village lighthouse—a towering structure built on solid rock, known to guide and protect those who trusted its light.

The lighthouse keeper reminded everyone: “The lighthouse is your refuge. Its foundation is strong, its light constant. Those who trust it are safe, even when the waves crash and winds rage.”

Some villagers laughed, thinking their treasures would save them. Others heeded the warning and took shelter under the lighthouse’s shadow. When the storm hit, the homes near the shore were battered and some lost, but those under the lighthouse’s protection remained safe and secure.

As the storm passed, the villagers realized the truth: wealth and possessions could not guarantee safety, but God—like the lighthouse—offers unshakable refuge. They remembered the words of Psalm 91:1-2, “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’”

From that day, the village adopted new priorities. They valued contentment in God (1 Timothy 6:6-8), shared generously with one another (1 Timothy 6:17-19), made choices guided by eternal perspective (Matthew 6:19-21), and leaned on the fellowship of believers for strength and encouragement (Hebrews 10:24-25; Proverbs 27:17).

The lighthouse became a symbol—not of human wealth, but of God’s eternal safety. And the villagers learned that true security, like the lighthouse, is found only in the shadow of the Lord, standing firm through life’s storms.