Be a Light

Imagine: a big city with skyscrapers, a hilltop village surrounded by thriving farms, a hamlet near the ocean atop a towering cliff. Cities are impressive in themselves, but they're undeniably more radiant when they're located on a hill. And they're even brighter when they're fully illuminated at night.
When Jesus addressed the crowd and his disciples in his famous Sermon on the Mount, he said to them:
"You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden."
Matthew 5:14
As he continued his message, Jesus explained that just as a city stands on a hill, or a lamp on a stand, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven." (Matthew 5:16).
Jesus often used metaphors to get people thinking. So here are six points to consider as you meditate on this verse:

1. Everything belongs to him

We are only a light when we carry within us the light, his light, which shines through us. Every good thing comes first from him. This truth should enable us to develop a humble self-confidence.

2. We have been chosen

There's nothing we can do to earn the honor and responsibility of being a reflector of light. It is a title given to us so that our legitimacy to possess it is irrefutable.

3. Don't hide

God's light in us cannot be hidden. When we truly follow him, it is obvious and undeniable. That's why we can shine for him with confidence and without shame.

4. Switch on light

We don't want the world around us to get any darker, but the Bible teaches us that it's inevitable. And yet, its light shines even brighter in the darkness.

5. More darkness

Followers of Christ are to be a ray of light, illuminating God's truth and shining His love. Whoever follows Jesus will never again walk in darkness. Jesus spoke again in public: "I am the light of the world," he said. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness: he will have the light of life." (John 8:12).

6. Born to adore him

We carry this light, not to draw attention to ourselves, but to lead others to worship God. The universal Church must be the brightest light the world has ever seen, and you are part of this city that is the Church.
Even as the sun sinks below the horizon and darkness invades more of the world, the glory of such a city cannot be hidden.
How does this message appeal to you?

Pasteur Clémentine