"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. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."Why have I always received Jesus' words, "You are the light of the world," as a burden to bear? When I read these words, I feel sort of like the prodigal son...working out the details of my apology, prepared to beg God to allow me to live in the servant quarters. I clearly do not deserve to live in the mansion with the Father. I haven't been a very bright light. And he told me that I am supposed to be the light of the world!
It's true. I am supposed to hear these words of Jesus, and go be light...be more purposeful about my presence and influence in this world. But what I typically skip over is the honor and joy found in Jesus' declaration. "You are the light of the world," is a declaration! The Light (capital L) calls us sinners the light (lowercase l) of the world! Unbelievable!
Today, I commit to be what He has already declared that I am. And I gladly receive this call with joy, absent of burden or unfair expectation...full of constant surprise over His kindness toward me.
So, how is memorizing the sermon going for you? Anyone? Anyone?
In the same way, let your light shine before men that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.
ReplyDeleteIt's been a challenge memorizing, but has been good for me!!