Our scripture this morning is Matthew 5:14-16.
You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.
The very first thing God spoke into being was light. Genesis 1:3-4 tells us ”Then God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light. God saw that the light was good; and God separated the light from the darkness.“ God separated the light from the dark in the same way Jesus will separate His followers from sinners (Matthew 25:32-33).
Later, the prophet Isaiah wrote ”The people who walk in darkness will see a great light; Those who live in a dark land, the light will shine on them” (Isaiah 9:2). God’s people were promised a savior who would lead them in light and love. In John 8:12 we hear ”Then Jesus again spoke to them, saying, “I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.””
In today’s passage we are called to be extensions of Christ’s ministry by reflecting His light in the world. Everyone needs to hear about God’s love for us and the way He intends for us to love one another. Jesus has called us to go in His name to share the light of love and hope with all the world.
Loving Lord, we are amazed and humbled that You have chosen us to do the work of Your kingdom. Bless us to be Your light and Your face to all our brothers and sisters. Amen.
