Our scripture this morning is Matthew 5:14-16.
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 speaks to the crowds that follow Him in His first lesson from Matthew. He uses common examples to teach them heavenly concepts. This was His mission, to show God’s love in a personal way so they could hear and understand, and then go to share the joy of His love with everyone.
He calls us from our darkness into His light and then allows us to give the illumination we have received to others. I always felt our Christmas Eve candlelight service demonstrates this. As we pass the flame to one another it reminds us of how our faith is passed in the world, and each candle can light many others without its own light being diminished.
Jesus said “you are the light of the world” indicating we are blessed and called to a mission for Him. He tells them “let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your Heavenly Father”, the ultimate goal of our discipleship. The old Sunday School song “This Little Light of Mine” expresses it simply and well – may all of our lights shine for Him!
Loving Lord, You made us in Your image to be part of what You are doing in creation. Help us to be living lights that all may know Your love. Amen.
