By: Elena Mart

In his thoughtful book, Shine Your Light: Poems about Jesus, Light, Ships and the Sea, author Jathan S. Pfeifle offers a collection of poems filled with hope and encouragement. Using simple and clear language, Pfeifle connects with readers of all ages and backgrounds.

Staying Strong in Faith

Life can sometimes feel overwhelming, and many people encounter daily challenges at home, at work, or in their communities. These struggles can leave us feeling tired, uncertain, or even afraid. However, Pfeifle reminds us that faith in God can offer strength and help us move forward, even in tough times.

His poetry paints a picture of God as a capable captain, guiding a ship through stormy seas. Just as a boat needs a steady hand to steer it safely, people need faith to navigate their challenges. Pfeifle uses simple, encouraging language to express this idea:

Trust in God, He’ll be your Guide,

He’ll give your eyes new sight.

These words suggest that trusting in God helps us gain a clearer perspective on life’s challenges. When we place our trust in God, we can find the courage to face difficult situations, knowing that we are not alone in the journey.

Sharing God’s Love with Others

Faith, according to Pfeifle, is not only something to hold onto privately but something to share with others. The author teaches that faith should be expressed through actions like helping others, listening kindly, or comforting those in need. Even small gestures can allow God’s love to shine through.

One of Pfeifle’s poems gently conveys this idea:

Show your child affection

Hold him close once more.

Through these simple words, Pfeifle shows that love begins with small acts. When parents embrace their children, friends help one another, and neighbors care for each other, God’s love becomes visible to those around them. These everyday acts of kindness can serve as reminders of God’s presence in our lives.

Peace in Troubled Times

In a world full of uncertainty, everyone seeks peace. Yet, it can sometimes feel difficult to find. Concerns about family, health, or the future may weigh on our minds. Pfeifle gently reminds us that real peace comes from trusting God.

In one of his poems, Pfeifle offers a serene image to explain this idea:

He reaches o’er the ocean

The sun cast through his hand.

This calm scene invites readers to reflect on the beauty of God’s creation and the peace that comes from acknowledging His presence. Seeing a sunset or walking beside the ocean can remind us that God created the world around us, helping us find peace and trust in His care for us.

Pfeifle also teaches that spending quiet time with God can be a source of peace. Taking moments to pray or reflect on God’s love can offer comfort when life feels overwhelming. He encourages readers to see these quiet moments as essential for inner peace.

Hope for a Better Tomorrow

Hope is crucial. Without hope, life can feel discouraging. Pfeifle’s poems remind readers that trusting God can give them hope for the future, even when life feels challenging.

One poem expresses a hopeful promise:

Soon will God redeem His chosen

We’ll be going home at last.

These words provide a gentle reminder of the hope Christians have in God’s promises. Pfeifle’s message encourages readers to remember that, no matter how dark life may seem, there is always the possibility of a brighter tomorrow.

Even during times of fear or sadness, Pfeifle’s poetry offers the comforting thought that better days are ahead. His poems help readers understand that hope can be found by trusting God’s love, which is steadfast and unchanging.

About the Author

Jathan S. Pfeifle was born and raised in California, where he continues to live today. He has been writing poetry for over three decades, covering a range of topics, including Scripture, nature, American heritage, and more. Pfeifle views his writing as a gift from God, meant to inspire and encourage others.

In his free time, Pfeifle enjoys working in his garden, reading, helping at his church, and researching his family history. His greatest hope is that his writing brings readers closer to their faith and helps them focus on the love of Jesus Christ.