Thanks for the input andolaurina and LaurieA. Now let me back up a little bit and ask a related question:

Which modler program of the free or less expensive variety does a good job of rendering objects so that they glow, appear to eminate light? I use, or want to use, this option a lot where I have a sphere or a flame or some other object glow with light and Poser 9 seems to be wanting in this area.

Does Blender do a good job with this?