The Life and Ministry of Jesus
“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:14–16
Our light does not originate from us. However, Scriptures teach that the light is more than reflected, that we in fact become light ourselves. Somehow our incorporation in Christ allows us to some extent to be light, however imperfect. Our light is still derived from him—not a ray of it comes from ourselves—but it is more than reflected. We “participate in the divine nature,” as Peter says (2 Peter 1:4). The question is, how can we shine even more?
A man returning from a journey brought his wife a matchbox that would glow in the dark. After he gave it to her, she turned out the light, but it could not be seen. Both thought they had been cheated. Then the wife noticed some French words on the box and asked a friend to translate them. The inscription said: “If you want me to shine in the night, keep me in the light.” So it is with us! We must expose ourselves to Jesus, delight in his Word, and spend time in prayer soaking up his rays. 1
Personal Encouragement
How can His Word and prayer bring greater light to your life? What kind of works bring glory to God? (Answer: read Colossians 3:23-24)
For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light. Ephesians 5:8
A hidden light is like no light at all; A light on a hill is fully accountable to all.
A Prayer
Lord, thank You for teaching me how to live for You with all my heart, mind, and strength.
1. Hughes, R. K. (2001). The sermon on the mount: the message of the kingdom. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.
