Our scripture this morning is Matthew 5:14-16 (NLT).
“You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.”
Jesus, who is the very light of God, tells us we are the light of the world. In that time of candles and oil lamps, light was a precious commodity. Jesus indicates that in the same way, it is important that our light reflect God’s love. Just as light shines on everything in its path, our love must go to everyone we encounter.
We have been given His love to share, and when we don’t, it is like hiding the light “under a basket” as Jesus says. Everyone knows that is foolish – and not fulfilling our commission to make disciples of all nations when we have been given the blessing to go in His name is just as foolish.
Jesus teaches that we respond to the Father’s love by letting our “good deeds shine out for all to see.” It’s not about us, but our reaction to being freed from sin, forgiven, and made part of the kingdom work He has for us here. When we share the wonders of His love with others, it allows them to see the truth and “everyone will praise your heavenly Father.”
Gracious God, we want to share Your light and love with a dark and hurting world. Help us to shine for You in all our efforts, letting others see the joy we find in our connection to You. Amen.
