Reading the Word
Matthew 5:14–16 (ESV) — 14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Understanding and Applying the Word
Yester, we read that we are the salt of the earth. Today we are called the light of the world. Of course, Jesus is talking to his followers, those who belong to the kingdom of heaven (cf. Matthew 5:1-12). Light illuminates the darkness. It makes things visible that are hidden and it gives guidance. You do not hide light, you put it on a stand or in a high place so it gives light to all.
As the light of the world, Christ’s followers are meant to shine bright in the world. They are meant to bring truth and revelation to a lost world that needs guidance. Far too many Christians would rather hide their light by not speaking to others about their faith. This should not be. This is not what our Lord desires from us. We must live for Christ and speak to others about all he has done for us and for all who will believe. Let’s be the light we are called to be.
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