Advent: Sharing the Light

Advent: Week 1, Day 7

Light one purple candle.
Read Matthew 5:14-16

"You are the light of the world. A city 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 men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." (5:14-16)

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It's hard to hide a light.

During World War 2, entire cities practiced a defense policy called "blackout" in which citizens and businesses were told to shut off their lights at night in hopes of avoiding bombing or invasion. If the enemy could see a target, they could destroy that target. Just one light could give away the location of a city or an individual. Even New York City and places on the East Coast practiced blackouts during the War.

Jesus said a city on a hill couldn’t be hidden. It's there for all to see. Also, a light is not easily hidden. You could place it under a bowl or basket but the light would just go out. You can't revive it again without another match or flint. Also, if a light is under a bowl or basket, what good does it do? You can't see around you very well. Nor can others see you.

You see, Jesus is the Light of the World, and since we have been called to walk in His Light and reflect it we need to make sure that others see the Light in us. We are that city on a hill or that household light. We were made to shine the Light of Jesus Christ so that the world may see and turn to God in praise.

Are you letting the Light of Jesus shine in your life? Are there areas in which you are trying to hide that Light? Are there areas in which you are afraid to declare that you are a Christian? Jesus wants us to reflect and share His Light so that people will be attracted to that Light and come to faith in Him. So are you willing to sing with me, "This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine"? I hope so.

Be God's.