Prayer

 Prayer and the candle light have much in common.  Like prayer, the candle light is unselfish.  The radiance of the light remains the same;  whether placed in a dark room or out in the sun.  The light does not diminish itself under the sun or brighten itself in a dark room. It emits the same light.  Only when in the dark do we appreciate better the candle and if out in the open we do not seek one.  But that does not affect the candle light. Most often we have recourse to prayer only in times of difficulty.  At other times when everything is going on well we do not really feel the need to pray.  That does not mean the power of prayer reduces. It is our perception of prayer and our need for it that increases or diminishes.  

Another aspect of a candle light is that it is selfless.  No amount of lighting other candles from it will diminish the initial brightness of the candle light.  The candlelight does not say that since it has been shared or divided it will shine less brightly now.  Prayers too when shared do not become less efficacious. 

Another essential feature of the candlelight that we often do not see replicated in prayer is the efficacy of it at all times and for all people.  The candlelight is not partial to the good and less bright for the not-so-good.  No matter who, when and for what purpose, the candlelight is always at its best.  Prayer too is for all.  We often remember those close to us and those who are good to us.  We barely pray for those whom we do not like.