AND THERE WAS LIGHT

 

May 29, 2025

Matthew 5:14

“You are the light of the world. 

A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.”

Let those words sink in, Jesus calls us the light of the world. All of us no matter who we are, what our vocation is, where we live. Our life, right where we are presently, is meant to shine.

But what does that really mean? Lets take a moment to consider what light does:

Light drives away darkness.

Light brings clarity where there’s confusion.

Light offers safety to those feeling lost or afraid.

Light attracts attention—light naturally draws people in.



When Jesus said, “You are the light of the world,” He was giving us a calling. Light is essential, and it's powerful. When you enter a dark room in your home, it only takes the flick of a switch to change everything. Frequently the Bible reminds us that darkness cannot overcome light; it flees from it.

In the same way, the presence of a Jesus-follower, his disciple, can bring hope, peace, and truth into the darkest places: a hurting friendship, a struggling community, a broken family, yes even a workplace filled with conflict.

Jesus isn’t asking us to shine with a light we produce ourselves. He's telling you and me that, by being connected to Him, the Light of the World (John 8:12), we will shine naturally. You see, the more time we spend with Jesus, the brighter our life becomes.

Lydia moved into a new neighborhood with her husband and young kids. They didn’t know anyone and hoped to quietly settle in. But next door was a woman named Maggie, who made it her mission to be a good neighbor. She showed up with cookies. She waved every time they passed. When Lydia’s mom was hospitalized, Maggie offered to watch her kids, no strings attached.

Over time, Maggie's kindness broke down Lydia’s walls. One summer evening, sitting under string lights on the back patio, Lydia said, “There’s something different about you. You have a peace I don’t understand.”

That night, Maggie shared her faith story—not perfectly, but authentically. A year later, Lydia became a follower of Jesus. Not because of a dramatic sermon, but because of a consistent light. Maggie simply lived her life close to Jesus—and others noticed.

Maggie didn’t have to preach. She just showed up with love, joy, peace, and patience. That’s light. I believe that is what Jesus meant.

We are given daily opportunities to be light. Not by being louder or pushier, but by being present, prayerful, and filled with Christ.

Where has God placed you to shine? Maybe it’s in your home, your school, your job, or your circle of friends. Your life, your smile, your words, your attitude can be the light that others around us are desperately searching for.

Don’t underestimate the power of a gentle word, a patient answer, or a faithful presence. Jesus shines through that.



Let's Pray

Jesus, thank You for calling me to be light in a dark world. I know I don’t shine by my own strength but by Your Spirit within me. Help me to stay close to You so that Your presence radiates through my life.  Use me to draw others closer to You. Let my life reflect Your love, Your truth, and Your grace. Amen.