The Light of the World

A ship is lost at sea, being thrown by the dark and wild ocean. 

But there is rescue – a lighthouse standing tall and bright. It floods the dark sky with its brilliant light and leads the ship back to shore.

We may not often think of it, but as believers, we too have a light within us that is meant to draw in the lost.

Matthew 5 begins the famous passage of Scripture, the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus teaches on the Kingdom of God to a massive crowd. Here, Jesus shares encouragement as well as instruction to his listeners of their identity and their calling.

First, Jesus says to His followers “You are the light of the world” (v14 ESV), which is the name He also attributed to Himself in John 8:12! What unity Jesus invites us into, that we are characterized by Him. Here is our identity – completely dependent on Christ. It is His light in us that shines.

Jesus then uses two images to explain the calling. He says “a city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house” (vv 14-15 ESV). These examples point to prominence and visibility. It is impossible to not see the city on the hill as it stands higher above all. You cannot miss the light on the stand as it illuminates the surrounding darkness.

Jesus continues, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (v16 ESV). The light of Christ within us is meant to shine before others. Living for God means that we act in faith – these are our good works. We love, serve, and give sacrificially. And most importantly, Jesus says that this is not to bring glory to ourselves, but to our Father in heaven above.

Friend – God has divinely placed you in spheres of influence to let your light shine. At home, in your work, in your relationships, your service and sacrifice – the way you faithfully live for God is evident to those around you and brings glory to God.

We are to let our light shine to the world lost in darkness. We are to be a witness to the brilliant Light of Christ.

Reflect:

Where can I be a more effective witness to God?