Carry the Light
The summer mission season is coming to an end, but we aren’t done Carrying the Light!
We asked preschool teacher Laura Méndez how Costa Rica is a unique place to learn how to Carry the Light, and what makes the culture so special when it comes to sharing hope to others:
Costa Rica is famous for its natural beauty–its incredible beaches, rainforests, and volcanoes–and for being home to 5% of all the Earth's species. However, what enables the country to bring "light" to other nations stems from two characteristics unique to Ticos (Costa Ricans):
1. Pura Vida: More than just a phrase, it is a lifestyle rooted in optimism, gratitude, and kindness. It is about living simply and finding joy in the little things, in nature, and in well-being rather than material possessions. Contexts in which we use the phrase pura vida include: as a greeting and a farewell; as a response to "How are you?"; and as an expression of gratitude instead of simply saying "Thank you."
2. Afternoon Coffee: This is a tradition observed between 3:00 and 5:00 PM. People take a break to gather, chat, and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee accompanied by traditional pastries. It is a time to connect with family, friends, or colleagues–an excuse to socialize, step away from work, share how the day went, and strengthen emotional bonds. So, if a Tico invites you for coffee, it is a clear gesture of appreciation.
We also asked Pastor Poncho what it means as a church to Carry the Light, truly offering the hope of transformation to the community:
Bringing light means living out one's faith in a practical way so that our shared life reflects the hope and love of Christ. As a church, our task is to kindle hope together.
When we decide to bring light into our community, it becomes a space of hope, justice, and solidarity. It means reaching out to a neighbor facing hardship, opening channels of conversation where there is division, and fostering trust amidst doubt or fear.
This light shines through small gestures: sharing bread, listening with empathy, being present with those who suffer, and celebrating each others’ achievements. In this way, the community becomes a guiding and encouraging beacon of light–shining to remind us that every person has unique value, and that together we can dispel the shadows of indifference.
Bringing light into the community means cultivating a transformative presence amidst the routines of daily life. It is not merely a matter of spiritual symbolism; it is a concrete action that illuminates the realities of those around us.
It can be intimidating to read the words of Matthew 5:14-16 and know how to put them into practice: “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
But just as Laura and Poncho have said, it doesn’t take a theology degree, an event, or a trip around the world. We can be the light of the world through small, daily acts like sharing a cup of coffee and encouraging one another.
May we embrace the pura vida way of life as we bring hope to those we meet.
May we continue to Carry the Light.
*Get your Carry the Light t-shirt at the FIESTA WITH A MISSION on September 18.
