11/07/2023
You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. - Matthew 5:14 NLT
Jesus tells us that we are the light of the world, not because of our own merits, but because of His grace and presence in us. He calls us to shine His light in the dark places, to be a beacon of hope and love for those who are lost and hurting. He wants us to reflect His glory and goodness to everyone we meet.
This is one of my favorite verses in the Bible. It reminds me of who I am in Christ and what He has called me to do. It fills me with joy and confidence to know that I am the light of the world, not because of anything I have done, but because of what He has done for me.
He has saved me, forgiven me, adopted me, and filled me with His Holy Spirit. He has made me a new creation, a child of God, and a citizen of heaven. He has given me a purpose, a mission, and a destiny.
As kingdom light bearers, we are not of this world, but we are sent into this world. We are not here to conform to the patterns of this world, but to transform it by the renewing of our minds. This mandate will require us to not blend in with the darkness, but to stand out as bright and shining stars, influencing the world for Christ.
Jesus is the true light that came into the world to enlighten everyone (John 1:9). He is the light of life that whoever follows Him will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life (John 8:12). He is the light of the world that whoever believes in Him will not remain in darkness (John 12:46). He showed us what it means to be the light of the world by His words and deeds. He spoke the truth with love and grace. He healed the sick, fed the hungry, comforted the brokenhearted, and set the captives free. He loved God with all His being and loved His neighbor as Himself. He laid down His life for His friends and enemies alike. He rose from the dead and ascended to heaven, where He intercedes for us and prepares a place for us.
He also gave us His commands on how to be the light of the world. He told us to love God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, and to love our neighbor as ourselves (Mark 12:30-31). He told us to be humble, merciful, pure in heart, peacemakers and seekers of righteousness (Matthew 5:3-10). He told us to share the good news of His kingdom and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20). He told us to let our light shine before others, so that they may see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven (Matthew 5:16).
Let us be encouraged by this verse today and be the light of the world!