“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 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. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Jesus (Matthew 5:14-16)
Let’s face it: this world is quite confusing these days.
People have all sorts of opinions about what’s good and bad, what’s right and wrong, what we should do and not do, etc.
When the world seems dark, our typical reaction as Christ-followers is…
We blame the dark for being dark.
You know, I think God is pretty smart. When Jesus described the church and His followers as “the light” it was not on accident.
What is “darkness”? Darkness only exists in the absence of light.
Just one tiny spark lights up a completely dark room.
So, is it more helpful to blame the dark for being dark? Or is it a better question to ask where the light is?
When the world seems to be getting dark, let’s make these commitments:
#1 – Let’s blame ourselves. If we are living out the Gospel as the people of God, the world will be full of light. If it’s not, then it’s our fault. It’s that simple.
#2 – Don’t get mad at the world for being the world. The Church and the Gospel are intended to be instruments of healing and restoration, not blame and condemnation. “God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” John 3:17
#3 – Make a difference in your own world. “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16
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How can we more fully be the light Jesus wants us to be? Leave a comment below and share you thoughts:
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