Light of Life

In my last post I recounted the story behind the naming of my blog. In doing so, I began to reflect on the spiritual connotations of light. Light is so essential to our daily lives that God made it a first priority in his work of creation.
Genesis 1:3-5 says:

"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 called the light "day" and the darkness he called "night". And there was evening and there was morning, the first day."

In creating the sun, God gave us the gift of light to illuminate our daily lives. Our need for light is evidenced by the way we are naturally drawn to light. Whenever light is present, especially in the midst of darkness, we gravitate toward it. Whether the source is sunlight, moonlight, candlelight, or a campfire on a summer night, we want to be close to the light. Ecclesiastes 11:7 says, "Light is sweet, and it pleases the eyes to see the sun."

Since the invention of man made sources of light, practical applications abound. Whether it be traffic lights, motion lights, lighthouses, turning signals, tail lights, headlights, flashlights, or streetlights, we rely on light in various forms for our direction and safety every day. The removal of light from our existence would not only leave us literally in the dark, but could also jeopardize our safety.

Speaking of himself, Jesus said in John 8:12, "...I am the light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in darkness, but will have the Light of life."

Jesus does not stop at describing himself as the Light, but also provides the opportunity for his listeners to join him in the light by putting their faith in him. This is a unique privilege offered to all.

The apostle Peter wrote in 1 Peter 2:9, "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light." Everyone who has responded in faith to God's gift to us in Jesus is called to live a life that reflects God's light.

Jesus said to his disciples in 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."

Light infuses life into our human experience. Spiritual light is no exception. Jesus calls his followers to be that light. Good deeds, motivated by God's love, results in our light shining in this world. Start small. You probably already have. Respond to the needs around you in life giving ways using the gifts God has given you. Speak words of life, hope, and encouragement to others. Pray for those God puts on your heart. Open your home to people of all ages who could benefit from the company of a good friend and a listening ear. Spend time with your children. Give them your full attention. Listen to them as they share their hopes and dreams. Give lots of hugs! Offer the life and the hope that is available through faith in Jesus. Give financially to the hungry and thirsty around the world. Encourage others to develop their potential and be all that God desires them to be. Show kindness to strangers. This can be as simple as holding a door for the elderly or someone with a disability. Offer your children's good quality used clothing to a low income family. The possibilities are endless. Be intentional! Ask God to give you creative ideas to make a difference in the lives of others. Shine your light!

How has God allowed you to shine your light in this world lately?