Duties and Candlelight

---

Dr. Kirk D. Farney M.A. ’98

Photo by Mike Hudson

One of the great privileges of my life has been the opportunity to serve in a leadership position at Wheaton College for nearly eleven years. I fully believe in our scriptural, academic, and spiritual mission as a genuine Christian liberal arts college. Yet as energizing and inspiring as that enterprise is, there are days when the burdens of my job—some expected, others seemingly out of nowhere—can weigh heavily. (I suspect that every reader can relate.)

As an historian, I often reflect on an event known as “New England’s Dark Day” during particularly challenging periods. On May 19, 1780, the sun came up as usual but by mid-morning the skies inexplicably had gone through a phase of deep red and by midday had darkened to pitch black. Animals were confused and humans were terrified. Many nervously waited to hear trumpets signaling Christ’s return.

The Connecticut legislature was in session, and many of its members wanted to end the session and go home.

One of the representatives, Abraham Davenport, stood to address the rattled assembly. “I am against adjournment,” he firmly stated, followed by his rationale. “The day of judgment is either approaching, or it is not. If it is not, there is no cause for adjournment; if it is, I choose to be found doing my duty. I wish, therefore, that candles may be brought.” The session continued. (Scientists today believe that a rare confluence of clouds, dense fog, and smoke from a massive Canadian wildfire caused the darkened skies.)

However imperfectly we may do so, it is my prayer that those of us who serve in the shadow of Blanchard Hall will, indeed, be found doing our duty—at the College, in our churches, in society, and in our families. It is my observation that Wheaton alumni sincerely endeavor to be found doing their duty as they seek to serve Christ and his kingdom to the best of their abilities. May God grant us all the wisdom and fortitude to carry out our respective duties and the grace to encourage one another in so doing.

Candles, anyone?