Light it Up
Light It Up
Picture it: a big city with tall buildings, a hilltop village surrounded by vibrant farms, an oceanside community on top of a giant bluff.
Cities are impressive on their own, but they’re undeniably radiant when they’re high upon a hill. And they’re extra brilliant when they’re saturated with light.
Speaking to the crowds and His disciples in His famous Sermon on the Mount, Jesus told them:
“Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.”Matthew 5:14 KJV
As He continued His message, Jesus explained, like a city on a hill or a lamp on a stand, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
Matthew 5:16 KJV
Jesus often used metaphors to get people thinking, so here are six things to consider as you reflect on that verse:
1. It’s all His: We are only a light when we have THE light—His light—shining through us. Anything good is first given by Him, and this should empower us with humble confidence.
2. We’re chosen: We can’t do anything to earn the honor and responsibility of being a light-reflector, but it's a title that's been given. This title is self-evident—because of who God made us and called us to be.
3. Don’t hide it: God’s light inside of us cannot be hidden. When we’re truly following Him, it is obvious and undeniable. So we can boldly and unashamedly shine brightly for Him.
4. Light it up: While we don’t want the world around us to grow darker and darker, the Bible teaches that it’s inevitable. And yet, His light will shine best in the dark.
5. No more darkness: Christ's followers are meant to be beacons of light, illuminating God’s truth and shining His love. Whoever follows Jesus will never walk in darkness (John 8:12).
6. Compelled to worship: The purpose of carrying this light isn’t to draw attention to ourselves, but to compel others to worship God. The global Church is meant to be the brightest light the world has ever seen, and you get to be part of that city, the Church.
Though the sun may sink beneath the horizon and the world may become increasingly dark, the glory of such a city cannot be missed.
SHARE YOUR FAITH
God's light inside of us cannot be hidden. When we're truly following Him, it's obvious and undeniable. Today, wherever you are and whatever you do, shine brightly and boldly for Him!
PRAYER
God, I'm humbled and honored to represent You here on earth. Help me to live a life that shines Your love! Please inspire every action, every word, and every thought I have and use them to point others to You.
In Jesus' name, Amen.