Letting Your Light Shine

[Adele M. Gill]

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:14-16

Light. When you think how important light is to this world, it is easy to see why people are drawn to it. For light leads the way out of darkness, in the physical realm and in the spiritual sense...

When you are spiritually enlightened, it is impossible to hide your light under a basket. It may be the light in your eyes, your contagious smile, or the subtle aura of light that surrounds you. Regardless of how it is manifested, the light of the Lord shines bright within those who love and revere the Lord, God.

This light is clearly a gift from God, as it is in part how Christians recognize each other. There is often no need to talk about faith directly among believers, as the light of Christ that they possess  speaks volumes.

When I was young, I often tried to wear a cross so that others would know I was a Christian. However, with the passing years, I have come to recognize that the light of Christ within us, which is a great reflection of Jesus' love for all people, is all that is necessary to signify Christianity to others. LIke the song says, "They will know we are Christians by our love!"

It has been said that Christians are a peculiar people, and I believe it to be true for this one fact. Christians are called to "dis" and exceed the status quo, and embrace others in love, regardless of circumstances. We are called to be a kind and forgiving people, humble and patient beyond measure, as we strive to love both our loved ones AND our enemies. And by so doing, we are able to lead the lost, the lowly, the lonely and the last to the Light of Jesus.

What a wonderful, blessed and challenging privilege to be light to others in this dark and shadowy world! Christians stand out even more as they knowingly forego their personal "comfort zone" in exchange for stepping up and out, leading souls to Jesus. They are able and compelled to take what they learn in the pew, and apply it to reaching out to others in the course of everyday life.

So ask yourself today...Are you a light to another person in need? Will you be a night light, a flashlight,  or a flourescent room light in the hand of the Lord, remains to be seen....However, light is light-- and it is the remedy for darkness--

You are the light of the world that paves the way for others to put aside their fears and move forward in confidence with love to glorify God. May your light shine for all to see today and forever more! AMEN!

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Adele M. Gill is the author of "The Inspiration Cafe"/blog www.silverlininghope.squarespace.com and "Jesus: The Great Invitation" Bible Study. She is also the author of the new 5 Star Christian Inspirational book, "7 Pathways to Hope," now available in print and on Kindle at www.amazon.com

[Adele M. Gill]

You are the light of the world that paves the way for others to put aside their fears and move forward in confidence with love to glorify God. May your light shine for all to see today and forever more!