Candle in the Dark - Coming Soon

by Darren Winfield

“Candle in the Dark” is a beacon of hope in the depths of despair, an acoustic reminder that light persists even in the darkest of times. This track is a tender ode to resilience and the unyielding human spirit that continues to shine amid adversity. It speaks to the heart, encouraging listeners to be the light for others and to find the strength to carry on when all seems lost.

The song’s purpose is twofold: to acknowledge the darkness that surrounds the issues of hate and antisemitism and to ignite the flame of courage and love that can dispel it. It aligns with the ‘Never Again Is Now’ movement’s message of hope and action, embodying the belief that each individual has the power to make a difference.

Through its gentle guitar strums and poignant lyrics, “Candle in the Dark” is meant to inspire individuals to take small yet impactful steps toward change. It encourages solidarity and support for those who feel isolated, acting as a musical reminder that no one is alone.

Listeners are invited to reflect on the metaphor of a single candle—how a small light can defy the overwhelming darkness, symbolizing the collective effort required to foster peace and compassion in our communities. This track is a call to action, urging us to stand firm in our convictions and to carry the torch of hope forward, illuminating the path for others to follow.

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“Candle in the Dark” Devotion

Opening Prayer:

Father of Light, in the shadows that life sometimes casts, help us to remember that even the smallest candle can defy the dark. Kindle within us a flame that never falters, that we might be bearers of Your light in all the dark places. Amen.

Scripture Readings:

  • Matthew 5:14-16 (NIV) – “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.”
  • Psalm 119:105 (NIV) – “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
  • 2 Corinthians 4:6 (NIV) – “For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.”

Reflection:

“Candle in the Dark” speaks to the enduring presence of hope and the steadfastness of faith. These scriptures encourage us to not only seek Christ’s light but to also become vessels of it, radiating God’s love and truth in a world that can often seem enveloped in shadow.

This song reminds us that our actions, no matter how small they may seem, can illuminate the darkness. It is in the act of service, the word of kindness, and the gesture of love that we find our purpose and call others to recognize the glory of God.

Meditation:

Reflect on the ways you can be a light in your community. How might you demonstrate the love of Christ in simple, everyday actions? Consider how the light of God’s Word guides you and ponder how you can share this guidance with others.

Application:

      • Intentional Acts of Kindness: Identify specific ways you can be a light to those around you through acts of kindness and service.
      • Scripture Engagement: Spend time daily in God’s Word, allowing it to be a source of light and guidance in your life.
      • Witnessing: Share your testimony of faith with others, offering the light of Christ’s love as a beacon of hope.
      • Community Outreach: Join or initiate community projects that aim to bring light to dark situations, whether it be through charity work, support groups, or social justice initiatives.

Closing Prayer:

Lord of Light, thank You for entrusting us with the task of bearing Your light in a world that yearns for hope. May we carry this light boldly, never hiding it away, so that through our deeds, Your love is known. Help us to be constant and unwavering, like a candle that burns steadily in the darkness, drawing others to Your radiant truth. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.

Lyrics

Candle in the Dark

Verse 1

In the shadowed valleys, where fear might dwell,
Your Word, a lamp; Your Truth, a well.
A single flame, in the vast night stark,
Messiah, You are our candle in the dark.

Chorus

Oh Light of the world, burn bright, burn clear,
In our deepest night, draw near, draw near.
Our steady beacon, eternal spark,
You’re our hope, our candle in the dark.

Verse 2

Through tempests that rage, through whispering doubt,
Your steadfast love casts all shadows out.
In Your glow, life’s journey we embark,
Led by You, our candle in the dark.

Chorus

Oh Light of the world, burn bright, burn clear,
In our deepest night, draw near, draw near.
Our steady beacon, eternal spark,
You’re our hope, our candle in the dark.

Bridge

Even when the stars seem to hide their face,
Your radiance fills every empty space.
In the silence, You leave Your mark,
A constant presence, our candle in the dark.

Verse 3

Through trials and pain, Your grace is seen,
A fortress of refuge, ever serene.
In the warmth of Your embrace, we’re emboldened, hark,
Messiah’s love, our candle in the dark.

Chorus

Oh Light of the world, burn bright, burn clear,
In our deepest night, draw near, draw near.
Our steady beacon, eternal spark,
You’re our hope, our candle in the dark.

Outro

So let us lift our eyes, see the promise in the skies,
As the dawn breaks, morning starts.
In Your mercy, we take part,
Forever guided by Your heart,
Messiah, our candle in the dark.

Lead Sheet

  • Key: Bb Major – warm and comforting
  • Tempo: 90 bpm – gentle, giving space to the song’s message of hope and resilience
  • Time Signature: 4/4 – providing a solid and supportive structure

Storyboard descriptions for music video

In “Candle in the Dark,” the storyboard paints a journey from individual struggles in the dark to a communal celebration of hope and unity. The recurring imagery of candles symbolizes the resilience and light each person brings, emphasizing the theme of shared hope overcoming adversity.

Verse 1:

  • Setting: A dimly lit street at dusk, with shadows casting long patterns.
  • Action: Various individuals, each facing their own form of darkness or struggle, are shown in isolated vignettes.
  • Mood: Somber and introspective, reflecting the sense of being alone in the dark.

Chorus:

  • Setting: One of the individuals lights a small candle, breaking the overwhelming darkness.
  • Action: As the chorus progresses, each person in their vignette lights a candle too.
  • Mood: The act of lighting candles introduces a sense of hope and resilience amidst the darkness.

Verse 2:

  • Setting: The light from the candles begins to brighten the previously dark scenes.
  • Action: The individuals start to notice each other’s lights from across their divides.
  • Mood: A growing sense of connection and solidarity, as the light symbolizes shared experiences and mutual support.

Chorus:

  • Setting: The individuals start to come out of their isolation, drawn towards each other’s light.
  • Action: They gather together, each small light contributing to a much larger illumination.
  • Mood: Heartwarming and hopeful, showing the power of unity and shared strength.

    Bridge:

    • Setting: The group, now united, walks through the street with their candles, lighting up the area.
    • Action: As they walk, their light attracts others, who join the procession with their own candles.
    • Mood: Inspirational and uplifting, emphasizing the contagious nature of hope and the communal spirit.

      Verse 3:

      • Setting: The combined light now illuminates a larger area, casting away all shadows.
      • Action: The group’s journey concludes in a public space, where they place their candles together to form a large display of light.
      • Mood: Reflective and serene, showcasing the lasting impact of collective hope.

      Chorus:

      • Setting: A wide shot of the illuminated area, with people gathered around the display of candles.
      • Action: The group engages in quiet conversations, shared stories, and comforting gestures.
      • Mood: Peaceful and unified, the shared light symbolizes a community bonded by hope and compassion.

      Outro:

      • Setting: The scene fades to a single candle burning brightly against the night.
      • Action: The camera zooms out to show the night sky, with stars twinkling like candles in the dark.
      • Mood: A sense of infinite hope and the enduring presence of light in darkness.