Daily Bible Verse ~ Matthew 5:14-16

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 [2] they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

As we begin the New Year, I am reminded through the words of Jesus that we are a light to the world. We are a city set on a hill. I remember when I was a younger man I was driving all day from one state to another. As I was completing my trip it was late at night and I came to the crest of a long hill climb to find my destination lit up so bright in the distance. It was the city I was looking for. This city was in the middle of the dessert and could be seen for miles. As I continued my long tiring drive I was encouraged that I could see where I was going long before I got there. It brought a sense of new energy after a long days drive. It brought me peace that I was able to finally see the end of my trip was near. And it gave me hope that any difficulties that I was fearful of at the start of my trip were no longer a threat to me.

In verse 16 Jesus says to let your light shine before men so they may see your good works and glorify your father in heaven. I don’t see this as a suggestion. It isn’t like he is saying, “As a disciple of mine it might be nice if you shine so bright that people will see the goodness in you and bring the Father glory.” It is more like a command. Jesus does have an expectation of those who follow Him. He is saying that you and me are light. That we are to shine so bright in the darkeness around us that people see Jesus. It isn’t an option.

Don’t hide your light under a basket today and for the New Year. With all the darkness that surrounds us we need to bring light, hope, and peace to a dying world. This means it is up to you and me to step out into the darkness and show the world that Jesus is our hope. Jesus is our life. Jesus is our supreme treasure. Jesus himself tells us to be the salt and light to this dead and dying world.

Digging Deeper:

Ephesians 5:8; John 12:35

Apply It:

Do you believe Jesus when he says you are the light of the world? Or are you hiding your light under a basket? Today I encourage you to make your light shine before men that they may see your good works and bring glory to the Father in heaven. Stop hiding your light and make Jesus the most important thing in your life for the coming year.

Prayer:

Lord, forgive me that I have spent so much of my life hiding your light from others. Help me, through your Hoy Spirit, to be a bold witness for you in the upcoming year and to let my light shine bright. We live in dark times Jesus, and I know that you want me to bring light into this dark world. Help me to have the strength to do that each day.