“You are the light of [Christ to] the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden;” – Matthew 5:14 (AMP)
One thing is certain in a dark room – you will never be able to see clearly, even if you’ve mastered the room for years. You will also most likely still have the painful experience of hitting your foot against a hard object. However, with any form of light, no matter how dim it is, you will be able to easily navigate your way.
This week, we began a new series by learning about the significance of light in this perverse world. As believers in a dark world, our mandate is simple – light up the world. It is not enough to be a mere light of the world; we are to shine it brightly and reflect it to others.
Just as the dawn dispels the night, our call is to be bearers of this light, guiding others through the uncertainties of life. By embodying the principles of love, righteousness, and faith, we become beacons of hope and agents of positive change in this world.
Our purpose is to know Christ and make Him known. After believing in the finished works of Christ, it should be evident in our speech, behaviours, priorities, and mindsets that we are sons of God (John 1:12). The truth and light we have received in salvation isn’t for us to hide or keep under a bushel; it’s for us to dispel to the earth (Matthew 5:15). Brethren, shine brightly!
A worthy illustration of shining brightly is Jesus Christ. We know that in Him is not just a message to receive but an example to emulate. Across the New Testament, Jesus went about preaching the Gospel, performing miracles, and raising disciples of God. Through Him, men grew in the knowledge of God’s word, lives changed, and minds were transformed. Friend, are you shining your light on the world? Is the Gospel prevailing through you? Is your light bright or dim?
As the light of the world, we are to preach the word of God to everyone, declaring Jesus as the only way to salvation and showing love to mankind. Jesus is love and He showed it to others. We are in the world to shine and to spread our light. As we preach the Gospel and hearts are receptive, this light spreads. As we act like Christ and think like Him, our light shines even brighter. Our presence on earth should illuminate and dispel the darkness of the devil (John 1:5).
Just as a stick of candle is lit up and through that one stick all others are lit, we are to spread the light of the Gospel to everyone around us. Who has heard the Gospel on your account? Whose light is flaming because of you?
Be spurred to make Christ known today. In your workplace, school, among families, friends, and strangers, shine your light brightly and talk about the light you have received.
Be intentional about it.
Bible Reading Plan: Galatians 3-4