Matthew 5:14-15
“You are the light of the world. A town built 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.”
It seems as if a hallmark of growing up in church is learning and singing, “This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine.” If you didn’t grow up in church or didn’t sing this song – that’s ok. It just means your parents don’t have embarrassing photos or videos of you singing at your church’s annual children’s choir recital!
From time to time, God reminds me of that sweet song. Usually there is no reason in particular for me singing it. It’ll just pop into my head. Recently, God used that song to help me examine my heart. I asked myself: How am I letting my light shine? Do people know that I love Jesus without me even having to say so? How have I been hiding the promise of unconditional love, eternal salvation, and a life of purpose?
How cool is it that in Matthew 5:14-15, Jesus calls us, “light of the world.” What an honor! That is how highly He thinks of His children. Jesus is our light of the world and yet because we are in Him, He gives us that same ability to spread His light and love to a world that so desperately needs it.
He then compares us to, “a town built on a hill.” Meaning, a town on a hill is exposed to the world in ways that are both good and daunting. For example, we can either choose to be a refuge for the weary or we can crumble under attacks from other cities. Instead of being an apprehensive member of this town on a hill, let God use your light for His kingdom. Maybe that looks like inviting a friend to church. Maybe it means sending someone an encouraging note or volunteering your time when you really just wanted that extra hour to sleep in. Or maybe it’s something as simple as picking up trash on the sidewalk (yes, I think God can even use something as simple as picking up trash to further His kingdom!). Whatever it is, I urge you to NOT hide your light! Be bold and let God use you in the mundane, in the extraordinary, and in everything in between.
Heavenly Father, we thank you for your love. Help us steadfastly remember your commandment to be a light in this dark world. We ask for your help and guidance as we answer this call. Please open our eyes to opportunities where we can radiate your love and use us as vessels to grow your kingdom. We love you. Amen.
-Brooke Morrissy, Senior Journalism Major
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