Light

Good Morning! 

God granted us a beautiful Tuesday … beginning with showers early and sunshine to end the day. While it was pretty windy … and a little chilly … the day allowed us to have a good day with friends on the links. I am so thankful for each day God gives.

I awoke this morning with the following verses running through the vacant space …

Matthew 5:14-16 English Standard Version (ESV)

¹⁴ “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. ¹⁵ Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. ¹⁶ In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that^[a] they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

Footnotes:

Matthew 5:16 Or house. ¹⁶Let your light so shine before others that

My mind then focused on how the gospels use the word “light”.  Strong’s Concordance shows that the Greek term phos or some derivation of the word is used seventy-three times in the gospels.  John, in his gospel, typically uses the term to describe Jesus as the Light of the world. But, here in Matthew, Jesus tells the folks gathered on the hillside that THEY are the light of the world.  Is there a conflict?

The short answer is “No!”  Those who are true followers of Christ reflect His light to all who care to see. When I read verse 16, it becomes evident that the end result is glory to our Father who is in heaven.  How does that happen? People see the “good works” in you and me.  It then becomes important for us to be sure that the Light we reflect is clear in purpose, devoid of personal gain.

The thought comes to me that Light shines upon all.  What I mean by the statement is that it is not up to me to determine if another is worthy of the Light.  Jesus died for ALL people … even those who actively rebel against God in their life choices.  It is not up to me to judge whether or not they should see the Light of Christ.  We should live before all with the hope that the Light of

Christ will penetrate the darkness of their lives … and bring them to know Christ as Lord and Savior.

We begin another good day … a day God has granted to us for His glory.  May God bless you throughout this good day … providing you with great joy.

Agape’

Mr. Jim

  

Prayer:  Father, shine Your Light in me today so that Christ will be held high and You might be glorified. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for today:  Matthew 5:14-16