Matthew 5:16 “Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”
We huddled together in the darkness of the great outdoors, clueless of the direction to take and certain of misstep and injury. As the irresponsible leader of this group of middle school students, I clutched in my hands a dead flashlight. The parable of the ten foolish virgins replayed in my head, with me starring in the role of “the foolish.” Certainly, my leadership capabilities would be questioned after this.
Just as hope was fading, from up ahead appeared the faintest of light. Its beam intensified until it reached our group and illuminated our little world. The previously invisible surroundings were no longer scary, our frightful chatter turned to laughter, and our confidence to forge ahead returned.
Precious light had dispelled our fears, delivered us peace, and lit the path to safety!
Reflecting on that dark night allows me a greater sense of what Jesus meant when He spoke of being light in the world. During his ministry, Jesus’ every move had been witnessed and recounted, each word discussed and argued over, and all claims of deity scrutinized. Through it all, the light of love, compassion, and mercy shone from Him. When His life ended in great tragedy and controversy, people were forced to make a choice: either claim Him as Lord and Master or disavow His deity and continue waiting for a Messiah.
Before taking His final earthly steps, Jesus’ instructions to His followers were clear: Go share His Light.
Christ calls us to illuminate the path leading to Him. He desires us to reach out to the unlovable and shine brightly His love, compassion, and mercy. Jesus needs us to be visible in the world by sharing His peace and revealing the blessed hope of an eternity with Him.
Consider the outcome if we, as Christ followers, fail to shine. Will others come to know Jesus and His truth from unbelievers? What an absurd thought! Only a lit match lights a candle, so spend precious time with Jesus and discover a heart lit on fire for Him. Sisters, be the flame!
Father God, as we seek You, draw us so close that our hearts will shine brightly for You.
Blessings,
Rita Cochrane