Devotionals

The Light of the World

by Jennifer Woodley 
09/24/20
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‘You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid.’ Matthew 5:14 (NRSV)

Christ’s followers have not been given all this faith, all this teaching, all this understanding simply to hide it away. The lamp must not be put under a bushel basket, but on the lampstand, so that it gives light to many. Christ’s life and light must shine out before others – they need to know who we are and what we stand for ‘so that they may see your good works and give glory to the Father in heaven’ (Matthew 5:16).

Apathy, laziness and conformity to culture quickly dulls our senses and causes us to remain silent and inactive. All too often we are no different from the people we live among. Have we grown mute and cold-hearted to the things of God? Like salt that adds flavour, have we lost our effect of bringing the message of hope to those we meet?

Let’s rise up and speak out. Begin to confess again the hope that is in us. Let’s stir up the gifts that God has given us to bless others. Let’s continue to build ourselves up in our most holy faith by sharing what Jesus has done. And let’s turn our attention back to the Scriptures which are useful for equipping us for every good work. Our Father has not given us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and love and self-discipline (2 Timothy 1:7).

The urgency is real. The need is great. Christ’s love is still the answer. He has revealed this hope to us. Let’s lavishly reveal it to others.