13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. 14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:13 – 16)
Today, we continue our focus on how we should interact with A World in Need. Yesterday, we focused on being salt. Today, we will focus on being light. As you consider the passage above, please spend some of your time thinking about why Jesus says we are to let our light shine.
Questions:
- What stands out for you in the illustrations about light that Jesus uses?
- Reflect on the purpose for us being light presented in the passage above. How does the world benefit when we shine our light?
Sharing your thoughts could be a big help to someone else. Please leave a comment on the blog.
February 27, 2020 at 6:43 am
Whatever “light” I am entrusted with, is accompanied with an expectation that every effort will be made to shine it at its brightest degree of radiance.
When we shine our light as we should shine our light we will enable the “world” to see (experience) the glory of God and be in a position to be “drawn” by the Lord unto himself.
February 27, 2020 at 9:01 am
We should endeavor to share and spread the good news to all. It brings light to our world in need.
February 27, 2020 at 9:41 am
The first thing that’s obvious to me is the light has to be lit, which means you can have a candle or bulb but if it’s not turned on or ignited it’s useless. Hmmm, Then there is elevation of the said light, it’s never left below or on ground level or under anything, for what use is it then.. Hmmm.
When my bulb is ignited and elevated (cause I know there are many times it’s not) the world should get and insight of the man from Calvary who changed lives in various ways and through various means. Like bugs drawn to light should be the worlds response to us.
February 27, 2020 at 11:24 am
When we read and say this prayer at Communion I always remember that I follow a brighter light. Sentiments are a bit similar to Karen but my greatest examples to demonstrate what I cannot physically do is this. Light and dark. The sky at night. When things are Darkest, in this case spiritually, mentally, the tiniest light is strongest. The bit in the bible when you are weakest you are stronger. Well when down and I look at the stars at new moon in a dark sky I know there is someone helping me as I too have found by sheer spirituslbguidance that Inhave turned up bearing my light at the same time a friend needs a tiny beam to set them right. Like rekindling the flickering ember to a flame as He wants us to be. We are all so blessed when our Lord so guides us. Hope I haven’t confused anyone. Sounds complicated but straight and clear from Him to us his tiny lights to shine on.
February 27, 2020 at 2:14 pm
1. Light brings full disclosure on all our actions. Everything we do is revealed. 2. Shining our light provides direction to others who may be searching. Our light also allows others to know more about the God we serve.
February 27, 2020 at 2:46 pm
I have heard people say about someone they know/knew, “She would light up a room with their smile” or “She would light up a room as soon as she walked in.” There is something obviously emanating from the person they are referring to that comes naturally. It’s just who the person is. Usually a person like this brings an uplifting or happy feeling to the people they come in contact with.
“A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.” This portion of the Bible verse reminds me of some people I have come in contact with. As soon as I see them, I feel “good”. They give off a light that is different from the person who gives off a light because their smile is beautiful, or because they are fun-loving. The type of light I am referring to, is the type that comes from a person who naturally gives off a brightness that only comes from living and walking with Christ on a daily basis. The way they talk, smile, hug, compliment, and ask how I’m doing (with sincerity), makes me wish I was like that. Their light can’t be hidden or covered. People can’t help but be drawn to them. They are the perfect example of what it means to be a light shines, that everyone can’t help but see.
My prayer is that we want to be the person that shines God’s Light for all the world to see. I definitely want to be.
February 27, 2020 at 3:01 pm
Reflect on the purpose for us being light presented in the passage above. How does the world benefit when we shine our light?
I remember driving one night on a dark and winding road with my car full of friends. I decided to test the reactions of my friends by turning off my headlights for a brief moment (about 2 secs.). Immediately there was a loud scream by all, Just what I imagined would happen. Everyone was comfortable when my lights were shining bright. There is a measure of comfort, security and delight when we allow our lights to shine. Interestingly that trick can only work at night time. When our surroundings are darkened we need to provide light for the comfort, security and delight of others. I need to remember that as a father, brother, uncle, friend, neighbor – you get the picture?
February 27, 2020 at 11:42 pm
All great comments.
I identify with Karen,s the most.
Jesus had to say be the light as there is so much darkness in this world that one can easily just be part of it or not try to figuratively shine your light.
To me it means don’t give in to the selfishness,greed, etc.etc that represents darkness.
A difficult task sometimes when you encounter negativity etc.
February 28, 2020 at 12:13 am
I agree with Yasmin that the comments are great. Some philosophical, some with excellent illustrations, and some with instructions, but all demonstrate deep reflection on the passage. Thanks everyone!