One of the most historic and visited sites in Nova Scotia is the quaint, operational fishing village of Peggy’s Cove. Located one hour’s ride from Halifax, millions of tourists from around the world visit Peggy’s Cove annually. Besides the amazing rock formations (and mussels and gingerbread desserts which I have indulged in at the nearby restaurant), there stands the focal point of the site – the red-topped, white lighthouse. This active lighthouse, built in 1915, defines this historic place. It continues to be a beacon of warning, guidance and comfort. A lighthouse warns the skippers and captains out on the ships of the Atlantic Ocean that the rugged ledges of the coast are near. Steer clear so that a disaster does not happen. A lighthouse is positioned to direct ships along the coastline and into the safety of the Halifax harbour, one of the largest natural harbours in the world. The beam of the lighthouse also points to the comforts of home that will soon be experienced by the passengers on board. Warning. Guidance. Comfort.
Ronnie Hinson wrote a memorable song: “There’s a lighthouse on the hillside that overlooks life’s sea. When I’m tossed it sends out a light that I might see. And the light that shines in darkness now will safely lead us o’er. If it wasn’t for the lighthouse, my ship would be no more. And I thank God for the lighthouse, I owe my life to Him. Jesus is the lighthouse and from the rocks of sin, He has shone a light around me that I might clearly see. If it wasn’t for the lighthouse, tell me where would this ship be?”
The beam of the lighthouse also points to the comforts of home that will soon be experienced by the passengers on board. Warning. Guidance. Comfort.
Hinged between BC and AD stands the person of Jesus Christ and specifically the Cross upon which He died. Trusting that His sacrifice is sufficient to embrace the forgiveness of the Holy God, He becomes our Lighthouse. Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me…you will have the light that leads to life.” A beacon now shines from heaven to earth, guiding our lives through the challenges of this life and giving us a sure hope for the life after life.